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Abstract
Siraf is well‐known archaeologically and historically as an ancient port in the Persian Gulf that prospered during the medieval period. Siraf played a leading role in facilitating maritime and terrestrial trade, connecting long‐distance Indian Ocean and China routes with those in the Gulf region. Despite its history, no previous research has been dedicated to the maritime infrastructure of Siraf. Through the ‘2012 Siraf pilot project’ a preliminary survey of the underwater and shoreline remains of this ancient port city was conducted. The site's location is unique in many respects to trade routes and logistical considerations; however, its maritime infrastructure is difficult to assess in light of the extensive threats to the site.
Acknowledgements
We thank the Iranian Centre for Archaeological Research and its representatives for the survey permit, and Susan Cheraghchi for facilitating the post‐project seminar at the Iran National Museum. Logistical support was provided by the Bushehr Office of Cultural Heritage and Tourism, East Carolina University and Dr Larry Babits, Mr Sarvari of the Asaluyeh Commercial Dive Club, and Mohammad Kangani of the Siraf‐Pars Institute NGO. Soheila Dejam Shahabi, Ahmad‐Reza Khakzad, and Cyrus Behpour generously provided financial support for the project.