The Hyrcanian Forests, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Iran, recognized in 2019, are ancient woodlands along the Caspian Sea, dating back 25-50 million years to the Tertiary period. These lush, temperate forests harbor rare species like the Persian leopard and relict trees, thriving in a unique microclimate of steep slopes and misty valleys. This pristine ecosystem reflects Iran’s natural heritage, offering a living remnant of Earth’s prehistoric landscapes and a vital biodiversity hotspot.

Copyright © 1992 - 2025 UNESCO/World Heritage Centre. All rights reserved.