The legendary “impassable” castle is included in the World Heritage list

UNESCO inspectors are set to visit the historic Alamut Fortress in Iran in September as part of the process to list it as a UNESCO World Heritage site by 2026. The ancient site, located inside the Kazvin province, is renowned for its strategic architecture and historical significance.

Kokcha News Agency reports that UNESCO inspectors will visit Iran’s Alamut Fortress in September to conduct on-site evaluations crucial for its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The 8,200-meter-high fortress, situated in the Alamut Mountains near Qazvin, has been under consideration for UNESCO recognition for over two decades.

Hamide Çubek, archaeologist and Director of the Alamut Kazvin Area Management, explained that the visit aims to assess Alamut’s cultural and historical value to finalize its inscription, which is scheduled for 2026. She added that the process, which began with the submission of a detailed file last December and received UNESCO’s approval, has been ongoing for more than 20 years.

Çubek emphasized that the UNESCO evaluation team will scrutinize the site’s preservation status and historical significance during their field visit, marking a pivotal step toward international recognition. She noted: “The process of listing Alamut Fortress and its defense walls as a world heritage site has been extensive and meticulous. Our team, along with UNESCO experts, will assess the site in September, and the official listing is expected in 2026.”

Nestled in the rugged terrain of the Alamut Mountains, this strategic fortress was built by the Buyid dynasty and became famous as the stronghold of the Nizari Ismaili sect, especially under the command of Hassan Sabbah. Its medieval walls and high elevation have made it a symbol of resilience and historical intrigue.

The fortress was constructed by the Buyid King and later gained legendary fame after it came under the control of Hassan Sabbah, leader of the Hashshashin, who transformed it into the sect’s headquarters. In 1256, it was captured and destroyed by Mongol forces under Hulagu Khan, nearly wiping out its inhabitants. Today, it remains an important archaeological and tourist site, attracting visitors interested in Iran’s medieval history.