In a time long past, the salt dome cluster in the Zagros range was formed, distinguished by its diversity, shape, formation, and development process. Millions of years ago, the Persian Gulf was a larger body of water that led to the accumulation of salt as it receded and was covered by sediments washed down from the mountains. Over time, the weight of sediment and rock caused the salt to behave like a fluid, rising up through weak spots in the sediment layer to form salt domes and occasionally salt glaciers.
These magnificent salt structures can be found in southern, southwestern, and central regions of Iran. The most notable examples are located in the Zagros Mountains along the Iranian coast in the Persian Gulf. Salt tectonics has led to the formation of over 130 salt domes in just one part of this mountain range. This phenomenon is caused by movement under pressure which allows for these impressive formations to occur.
UNESCO is currently considering granting World Heritage status to this unique cluster of salt structures located in Iran. Apart from salt domes, this region also boasts an array of other natural wonders such as salt caves, salt glaciers, salt valleys, karst sinkholes and springs. However future oil exploration activities may pose a threat to these remarkable formations as they are known for trapping petroleum and have been exploited for oil extraction in other regions.
