Marlik

Marlik is an archaeological burial site in Gilan province in northern Iran, noted for exceptionally rich grave goods recovered from ancient tombs. The site is best known among archaeologists and collectors for its metalwork finds.

Excavations uncovered multiple tombs containing worked gold, bronze and other objects that illustrate high levels of metal craftsmanship; these finds are among the site’s primary attractions for researchers. The material has been important for understanding local craft traditions and trade connections in antiquity.

The tombs and finds are attributed to pre-Islamic periods and represent funerary practice rather than standing architecture. The site has been investigated by archaeological teams and some finds are held in museum collections.

Geographically the site sits in northern Iran’s Gilan province, inland from the Caspian Sea within the foothills of the Alborz range.

• Notable finds: Site contains richly furnished burial contexts with numerous metalwork objects including gold and bronze items that are important for study of ancient Iran.
• Setting: Located in northern Iran’s Gilan province, inland from the southern Caspian Sea coast, at the edge of the Alborz foothills.

• If you plan to view Marlik's finds, check which regional museum currently houses the artifacts (many finds are displayed in Iranian national/regional museums) and visit there as the excavation mound itself is limited in visitor facilities.
• Arrange to visit with a local guide or as part of an organized archaeological tour-guides can explain the site's significance and point out features that are otherwise easy to miss.