Ancient cave-dwelling remains in Eyvan County, Ilam Province, have revealed signs of early human presence in the Zagros region.
Habibollah Mahmoudian, a professor of prehistoric archaeology, stated that the geographical area of Eyvan in Ilam Province served as a site of early human settlement during the cave-dwelling era. The latest archaeological research in this region has clearly uncovered cultural evidence in Khofash Cave, Bareh Zard Cave, and the Baskeleh-ye Garmeh Caves.
He noted that the Zagros Mountains — the most expansive mountain range in Iran — contain numerous caves and shelters, some of which are of historical importance, while others are notable for their scientific and natural significance.
Mahmoudian added that the caves surrounding Eyvan — particularly those along the slopes of Sivan, Kabirkouh, Koulkani Majin, Zeinigan, Chehel Sotoon, and Darreh Deraz — reflect the earliest steps toward sedentary life among ancient humans. Furthermore, dozens of yet-unexplored caves in the region may offer valuable insights into the cultural and civilizational changes of early human societies.
Baskeleh-ye Garmeh Caves: A Cluster of Archaeological Landmarks
According to Mahmoudian, one of the notable archaeological zones in Eyvan County is the village of Baskeleh, located 18 kilometers north of Eyvan along the main route to Kermanshah. This area is home to numerous caves, some of which hold considerable significance in archaeological research.
Baskeleh-ye Garmeh Cave 1
Mahmoudian described this cave as situated on the southern slope of Mount Dizgeh, about 1.5 kilometers northwest of Baskeleh village. The entrance measures 10 meters in width, with a depth of 12 meters and a height of roughly 8 meters. Deeper into the cave, at around 8 meters, the interior narrows to 4 meters in width and 1.5 meters in height. The cave is naturally formed, with both its walls and ceiling composed of solid rock.
He added that a small number of pottery fragments were found on the cave floor. Most of these shards are undecorated and appear to be poorly fired. Based on the available evidence, this cave complex is likely associated with the Chalcolithic period (Copper-Stone Age).
Baskeleh-ye Garmeh Cave 2
Mahmoudian explained that this cave is located about 2 kilometers from the village of Baskeleh. Its entrance measures 7 meters wide and 2 meters high, with a total depth of 14 meters. Beyond a depth of 4 meters, the cave expands to an average width of 5 meters and a height of approximately 3 meters. A natural fissure in the center of the ceiling allows enough light to reach the interior, enabling visibility all the way to the back of the cave.
He added that the cave stands roughly 40 meters above the adjacent plain. The presence of cultural artifacts in this location increases the likelihood that it dates back to a distinct historical era.
Baskeleh-ye Garmeh Cave 3
Mahmoudian noted that this cave lies about 3 kilometers west of Baskeleh, situated 220 meters above the nearby road. The entrance is notably wide at 24 meters, with a height close to 10 meters and a depth extending to 8 meters. At around 4 meters deep, the cave narrows to a width of 5 meters.
He also reported finding scattered pottery fragments on the cave floor, characterized by clay glazing, brown edges, and black painted designs. These features suggest the cave was reused or repurposed during later historical periods.
Baskeleh-ye Garmeh Cave 4
The prehistoric archaeology professor pointed out that this cave is situated about 3.5 kilometers west of Baskeleh, on the slopes of Mount Gavmehr. Unlike the other caves, it resembles more of a rock shelter. The entrance measures 18 meters wide, 4 meters high, and the cave extends roughly 5 meters in depth.
Mahmoudian further explained that the pottery discovered here consists primarily of simple, handmade pieces crafted with plant-tempered clay. The presence of obsidian blades at the site also suggests it was used during the Chalcolithic period.
Challenges in Regional Research
Mahmoudian concluded by noting the significant challenges faced when studying these sites. The wide range of locations, difficult access to some caves, and the lack of comprehensive documentation are major hurdles in accurately tracing the cultural and civilizational developments of early humans in this region.
Despite these difficulties, he stressed that these discoveries lay important groundwork for future studies into the social, cultural, and environmental changes experienced by the cave-dwelling populations of Eyvan.
