Welcome to Abadan:Retold – a platform for documenting the history of Abadan!

Abadan, Iran is special. Across the world, thousands cherish memories of life in what was once a cosmopolitan center in the Middle East, longing for the places, spaces and faces of the city. And yet, Abadan is today a city largely forgotten by the world.

Let us reintroduce Abadan to the world by documenting its fascinating history; bringing its past to life through pictures, essays, articles, maps and podcasts; letting scholars share their knowledge; and letting everyone share their memories and experiences.

ABADAN:RETOLD is an innovative platform for documenting the history of Abadan. We have launched the platform in in its first phase as we continue to work on several functions for the second and third phases.

In this first phase, the platform contains articles and essays, written by prominent scholars and figures, and an interactive map. We have a steady stream of articles and essays coming in, so check in regularly to stay updated!

In the second phase, we will introduce an advanced version of the map, a Wikipedia of all things related to Abadan and user interaction. In that phase, we call on you to participate and help us develop the platform. This can be done by adding information to the wiki and to the interactive map; by writing small essays or articles; by sharing your pictures and memorabilia; or by recording your memories and experiences with Abadan.

In the third and final phase, we hope to establish a collection or database of visuals, as well as an oral history project consisting of podcasted interviews with Abadanis from around the world.

So join us – and let Abadan be retold so that future generations can draw from the lessons of the city, understand the historical processes it embodies and envision a peaceful future where Abadanis, whether Iranian or non-Iranian, whether in Abadan or abroad, can come together and recreate the magic of the oil city and its inhabitants for all to experience!

Below, you can see a video we made for our crowdfunding campaign last year, which outlines the ideas behind ABADAN:RETOLD. Enjoy!