These are the heritage sites devastated by US and Israeli attacks in Iran

Iran’s history is layered with conquest, cultural renewal and craftsmanship - all of which can be seen in its remarkable heritage sites. 

The iconic turquoise domes of Isfahan and the intricate interiors of mosques and palaces across the country are internationally renowned. 

Iran's architectural heritage can be divided roughly into two eras. The first is the pre-Islamic period, which included Iranian empires such as the Achaemenids and Sassanids, and the second involves a succession of Islamic empires and states, starting with the Rashidun caliphate and ending with the Qajar state until the early 20th century.

Iran has 29 sites recognised as World Heritage Sites by Unesco - the tenth most sites in the world. But these sites have come under attack over the past two and a half weeks by Israel and the US. 

From Isfahan to Tehran to Khorramabad, Israeli and US strikes have devastated Iranian landmarks, including several inscribed by Unesco. 

Read more: These are the heritage sites devastated by US and Israeli attacks in Iran