Archaeologists uncover 5,000-year-old water system in Iran

Archaeologists in Iran made an unexpected discovery during excavations at the Farash ancient historical site at the Seimareh Dam reservoir – a 5,000-year-old water system. The research team is working hard to recover the water pipes, along with hundreds of other artifacts, before they are submerged by the new dam.

The Persians are one of earliest cultures to implement advanced systems of water distribution, and are among the greatest aqueduct builders of the ancient world. They are particularly well-known for their construction of qanāts, a series of well-like vertical shafts, connected by gently sloping tunnels, which were used to create a reliable supply of water for human settlements and for irrigation.

The water system comprises of a small pool and a long earthenware pipeline. Each earthenware conduit measures about one metre in length and the team leader Leili Niaken said it is likely that the structure was made and baked in the region.