Isfahan’s iconic Sio-se-Pol that spans Zayandehroud river in Isfahan does not inspire awe anymore, as evidenced by the number of graffiti that deface this historical bridge.
“Sad and broke” is spray-painted across one of the arches, presumably by a young couple who believe the whole world must be made aware of their financial hardship. Another reads, “Water flowed here once,” in an attempt to bring attention to the abysmal dry condition of Zayandehroud by defacing the historical structure, IRNA reported.
The sorry state of Sio-se-Pol highlights the negligence of cultural heritage officials.
Evident from the type of messages left on the bridge, Millennials, or the so-called Generation Y, seem oblivious to the cultural and economic value of historical structures, as they deliberately damage cultural heritages.
The lack of security guards at cultural heritage sites means young vandals get free rein to do what they please at historical sites.
Sio-se-Pol is only the latest addition to the growing list of defaced and damaged sites.
Last week, cultural heritage officials of Mazandaran Province were forced to ban all visits to Badab-e Soort Natural Springs due to the damage inflicted on the area.
Carelessness on the part of officials and tourists has caused considerable damage to the site, flattening the stepped terraces and polluting what little water still flows from the springs.
Protecting and preserving heritages are not acculturated in Iran, making incidents like these far too common.
