Marlik Hill

Marlik Hill, also known as Cheragh Ali Tepe, is located in Gilan Province, in Rahmatabad Rural District of Rudbar County, in the village of Nesfi in the Goharrud Valley. This archaeological site lies on the eastern bank of the Sefidrud River on the northern slopes of the Alborz mountain range, and is considered one of the most important historical sites in northern Iran. Its location in a fertile and strategic valley led to the formation of one of the oldest human settlements in the region.

Marlik Hill holds the remains of a civilization more than 3,000 years old and is regarded as one of the most important Iron Age sites in Iran. The site was probably the burial ground of the rulers and princes of the Amard people, and dozens of graves containing valuable objects have been discovered there so far. The finds include pottery vessels, gold and bronze objects, weapons, and in particular the famous Marlik Cup, which is regarded as a symbol of the art and civilization of ancient Iran. These finds point to a high level of artistic skill, ritual beliefs and an advanced social structure among the people who lived in this region.

Marlik Hill can be reached via the Qazvin–Rasht road and then by side roads leading to Rahmatabad Rural District; the route passes through foothill and rural areas. The best time to visit is spring and early autumn, when the weather is milder and the surrounding countryside is at its best. Given the historical nature and fragility of the site, it is essential to fully observe the principles of protecting ancient remains, not to move any surface objects, and to preserve the surrounding natural environment in order to safeguard this valuable heritage.