Tappeh Ali Kosh

Tappeh Ali Kosh, also known in local sources as Bus Mordeh or Mohammad Jafar, is located in Dehloran County, Ilam Province, and is considered one of the most important Neolithic archaeological sites in southwestern Iran. The mound lies about 7 kilometres west of the town of Musian, in the Bayat area. The site dates back to the 8th millennium BC and was registered as one of Iran's National Monuments on 3 Aban 1379 (Solar Hijri), under registration number 2976. 

Archaeological studies show that Tappeh Ali Kosh is a Neolithic site (about 7500–5500 BC) and is regarded as one of the earliest farming and herding settlements in western Iran. According to archaeological findings, the people living here were among the first in the world to cultivate cereals such as wheat and barley, and they domesticated animals such as goats and sheep. Three distinct cultural phases have been identified at the mound: “Bus Mordeh”, “Ali Kosh” and “Mohammad Jafar”. Finds include stone bowls, farming tools, clay figurines, shell beads originating from the Persian Gulf, and burial goods. The initial excavations were carried out by Frank Hole and Kent Flannery in the 1960s, and the results have been published in various archaeological works. 

To visit Tappeh Ali Kosh, head for Dehloran County and from there enter the town of Musian. Then continue about 7 kilometres west into the Bayat area, where the mound stands in a visible spot. A visit to this ancient site takes less than an hour, and entry is free. The best time to travel to this area is spring, when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is green. Please take care during your visit and avoid damaging the structure of the mound or leaving litter, so that this valuable heritage remains preserved.