Rome – Iran’s Rainfed Fig Orchards of Estahban, in southern Fars province, have been officially inscribed as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS).

 

The recognition was awarded to the Islamic Republic of Iran in honor of its enduring contribution to sustainable agriculture and biodiversity preservation in a ceremony held at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters in Rome on October 30, 2025, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the FAO’s founding.

 

With this achievement, Iran now ranks fourth globally, with six agricultural heritage systems recognized by the FAO.

 

The Estahban Fig Orchards - added to the GIAHS list between 2023 and 2025 - serve as a symbol of biodiversity conservation, sustainable farming practices, and the preservation of Iran’s rich traditional knowledge in natural resource management.