{"id":72285,"date":"2024-02-03T11:17:10","date_gmt":"2024-02-03T11:17:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/?p=72285"},"modified":"2026-11-02T01:13:35","modified_gmt":"2026-11-02T01:13:35","slug":"naqsh-e-rostam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/","title":{"rendered":"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&#8217;s Ancient Necropolis"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Naqsh-e Rostam is a cliff-side archaeological site in Fars Province, about six kilometres northwest of Persepolis. Its royal tombs and Sasanian reliefs occupy the southern face of Hossein Kuh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#location-and-accessibility\" >Location and Accessibility<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#getting-to-naqsh-e-rostam\" >Getting to Naqsh-e Rostam<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#tomb-attributed-to-darius-ii-reigned-423%e2%80%93404-bce\" >Tomb Attributed to Darius II (reigned 423\u2013404 BCE)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#tomb-attributed-to-artaxerxes-i-reigned-465%e2%80%93424423-bce\" >Tomb Attributed to Artaxerxes I (reigned 465\u2013424\/423 BCE)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#tomb-of-darius-i\" >Tomb of Darius I<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#tomb-of-xerxes-circa-465-bce\" >Tomb of Xerxes (circa 465 BCE)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#sassanian-reliefs-at-naqsh-e-rostam\" >Sassanian Reliefs at Naqsh-e Rostam<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#relief-of-shapur-is-battle\" >Relief of Shapur I&#8217;s Battle<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#equestrian-battle-reliefs\" >Equestrian Battle Reliefs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#narseh-and-the-ring-of-royal-authority\" >Narseh and the Ring of Royal Authority<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#unadorned-carved-panel\" >Unadorned Carved Panel<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#cube-of-zoroaster\" >Cube of Zoroaster<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#kartirs-inscription\" >Kartir&#8217;s Inscription<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#dual-stone-fire-altars\" >Dual Stone Fire Altars<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#fortress-and-protective-walls\" >Fortress and Protective Walls<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#water-well\" >Water Well<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#final-words\" >Final Words<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/naqsh-e-rostam\/#references\" >References<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-location-and-accessibility\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"location-and-accessibility\"><\/span>Location and Accessibility<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Naqsh-e Rostam<\/strong>, an ancient necropolis steeped in history, lies in the heart of Iran&#8217;s <strong>Fars<\/strong> province, a mere 6 kilometers northwest of Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the <strong>Achaemenid<\/strong> Empire. This historic site, known for its awe-inspiring rock reliefs, serves as a testament to the grandeur of ancient Persian civilization. It is easily accessible from <a href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/shiraz-travel-guide\/\"><strong>Shiraz<\/strong><\/a>, the nearest major city, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Iran&#8217;s rich cultural heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From Shiraz, travelers can opt for a short <strong>drive to Naqsh-e Rostam<\/strong>, with the journey taking approximately an hour. This proximity allows for seamless integration into travel itineraries that include Persepolis, offering a comprehensive glimpse into Iran&#8217;s ancient history in a single day trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Public transportation options, including buses and taxis, are readily available from Shiraz, providing convenient access to Naqsh-e Rostam. However, for a more personalized experience, consider arranging a private tour through reputable travel agencies like <a href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/iran-tours\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>SURFIRAN<\/strong><\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/orienttrips.com\/experience\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>OrientTrips<\/strong><\/a>. These tailored tours not only ensure comfort and convenience but also offer insightful commentary on the historical significance of the site, enhancing the overall visitor experience.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"585\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74314\" style=\"width:780px;height:auto\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran (photo by Wikipedia)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Upon arrival, guests will find that Naqsh-e Rostam is well-equipped to welcome tourists, with facilities such as parking, guides, and informational plaques that elucidate the site&#8217;s history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best time to visit is during the cooler months from March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant, allowing for a more enjoyable exploration of the outdoor site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-text-color has-background\" style=\"color:#000000;background-color:#ffffff\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:64px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-text-color has-small-font-size wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#1e0e7c;line-height:.9\"><strong>SURFIRAN Tours<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color\" id=\"schedule-a-visit\" style=\"color:#1e0e7c;font-size:30px;font-style:normal;font-weight:700;line-height:1.15\">Best Iran Tours<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-7d812b4c wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-50\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/iran-tours\/\" style=\"border-radius:50px;color:#ffffff;background-color:#f94931\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-white-color\">Book Now<\/mark><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:64px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-getting-to-naqsh-e-rostam\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"getting-to-naqsh-e-rostam\"><\/span>Getting to Naqsh-e Rostam<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To visit Naqsh-e Rostam, located 56 kilometers northeast of Shiraz, you can easily access this site from Persepolis, with just 6 kilometers separating the two. For those with a personal vehicle, the journey is straightforward: head towards the city of Marvdasht and follow the Marvdasht-Sa&#8217;adat Shahr highway to the Persepolis to Istakhr route, also known as the ancient royal road. If driving isn&#8217;t an option, one-day tours or taxis represent the best alternatives for reaching Naqsh-e Rostam, offering convenience and the opportunity to explore this historic site without the need for personal transportation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6aecfbc37c722&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6aecfbc37c722\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"562\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--pointerdown=\"actions.preloadImage\" data-wp-on--pointerenter=\"actions.preloadImageWithDelay\" data-wp-on--pointerleave=\"actions.cancelPreload\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Naghsh-e_rostam.jpg\" alt=\"Naghsh-e Rostam\" class=\"wp-image-72421\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Naghsh-e_rostam.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Naghsh-e_rostam-780x292.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Naghsh-e_rostam-1024x384.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Naghsh-e_rostam-768x288.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-bind--aria-label=\"state.thisImage.triggerButtonAriaLabel\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.thisImage.buttonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.thisImage.buttonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Naghsh-e Rostam<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Four Achaemenid tombs face the plain. Darius I\u2019s is identified by inscriptions; the other three are conventionally attributed to Xerxes I, Artaxerxes I and Darius II. These assignments have different levels of certainty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Facing the cliff, the conventional order from left to right is Darius II, Artaxerxes I, Darius I and Xerxes I. The Sasanian reliefs below belong to a later phase of the site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tomb-of-darius-ii-420-to-404-bce\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"tomb-attributed-to-darius-ii-reigned-423%e2%80%93404-bce\"><\/span>Tomb Attributed to Darius II (reigned 423\u2013404 BCE)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"518\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Darius-II-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74316\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Darius-II-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Darius-II-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x510.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tomb of Darius II, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The westernmost tomb is conventionally attributed to Darius II. Its cross-shaped fa\u00e7ade follows the model of Darius I: in the upper register, a standing king faces a fire altar on a platform supported by representatives of the subject peoples. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/articles\/place\/naqs-e-rustam\/naqs-e-rustam-photos\/naqs-e-rustam-achaemenid-tomb-i\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lendering&#8217;s description<\/a> also distinguishes the later equestrian relief of Bahram II below it from the Achaemenid tomb above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-inside-the-tomb-of-darius-ii\">Inside the Tomb of Darius II<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The tomb\u2019s interior follows the royal rock-tomb tradition, with burial chambers behind a vestibule. The surviving architecture does not establish which grave, if any, held Parysatis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-who-was-darius-ii\">Who Was Darius II?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Darius II ruled from 423 to 404 BCE. His reign followed the brief succession struggles after Artaxerxes I\u2019s death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tomb-of-artaxerxes-i-450-to-430-bce\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"tomb-attributed-to-artaxerxes-i-reigned-465%e2%80%93424423-bce\"><\/span>Tomb Attributed to Artaxerxes I (reigned 465\u2013424\/423 BCE)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"520\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Artaxerxes-I-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74320\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Artaxerxes-I-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Artaxerxes-I-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tomb of Artaxerxes I, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The next tomb is conventionally attributed to Artaxerxes I. Its upper scene shows a king standing before an altar with a bow, rather than grasping a ring in his sleeves. Representatives support the platform beneath him. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/articles\/place\/naqs-e-rustam\/naqs-e-rustam-photos\/naqs-e-rustam-achaemenid-tomb-ii\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lendering notes an additional figure<\/a> in this tomb&#8217;s relief and identifies the mounted battle below as the later monument of Hormizd II.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-inside-the-tomb-of-artaxerxes-i\">Inside the Tomb of Artaxerxes I<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The interior adapts the chamber-and-vestibule arrangement of Darius I\u2019s tomb. Its layout alone cannot identify individual burials as Artaxerxes I, Damaspia or a chosen successor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-who-was-artaxerxes-i\">Who Was Artaxerxes I?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Artaxerxes I, a son of Xerxes I, ruled from 465 to 424\/423 BCE. He was a different king from Artaxerxes III. The tomb\u2019s conventional attribution does not rest on an inscription naming its occupant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tomb-of-darius-the-great-519-bce\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"tomb-of-darius-i\"><\/span>Tomb of Darius I<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"520\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Darius-the-Great-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74323\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Darius-the-Great-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Darius-the-Great-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tomb of Darius the Great, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Darius I\u2019s tomb is securely identified by its inscriptions. Above the palace-like fa\u00e7ade, the king stands before a fire altar on a platform supported by thirty representatives of the empire\u2019s peoples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Four engaged columns frame the palace-like middle register. Its proportions recall the fa\u00e7ade of Darius\u2019s palace at Persepolis. This architectural resemblance does not by itself demonstrate a particular doctrine of resurrection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Behind Darius\u2019s decorated fa\u00e7ade, a long vestibule gives access to barrel-vaulted burial rooms and rock-cut cists. Iranica notes that the original interments have not survived. The attribution of a particular grave to Atossa is therefore not secure archaeological identification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-who-was-darius-the-great\">Who Was Darius the Great?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Darius I ruled from 522 to 486 BCE and began the royal building programme at Persepolis. His inscriptions also record a canal connecting the Nile with the Red Sea. This was a different route from the modern Suez Canal between the Mediterranean and Red Sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>An Ancient Account of the Tomb<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A story preserved in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/sources\/content\/ctesias-overview-of-the-works\/photius-excerpt-of-ctesias-persica\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Photius\u2019s summary of Ctesias, section 19<\/a>, says Darius\u2019s parents died when the people hauling them up to the tomb released the ropes. It is a literary account, not an event established by excavation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-inscriptions-of-the-tomb-of-darius-the-great\">Inscriptions of the Tomb of Darius the Great<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">DNa introduces Darius, names the subject peoples and presents his kingship in relation to Ahura Mazda. DNb describes the qualities of a good ruler. These are royal statements of authority, not impartial biographies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hubertus von Gall&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iranicaonline.org\/articles\/naqs-e-rostam\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Iranica account<\/a> records a Seleucid-period Aramaic rendering of DNb below its Elamite text. This later addition is separate from the original Achaemenid inscriptions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fffaea\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6aecfbc37d17d&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6aecfbc37d17d\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"952\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--pointerdown=\"actions.preloadImage\" data-wp-on--pointerenter=\"actions.preloadImageWithDelay\" data-wp-on--pointerleave=\"actions.cancelPreload\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/DNa-inscription-at-Naqshe-Rostam.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-72300\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/DNa-inscription-at-Naqshe-Rostam.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/DNa-inscription-at-Naqshe-Rostam-780x619.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/DNa-inscription-at-Naqshe-Rostam-1024x812.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/DNa-inscription-at-Naqshe-Rostam-768x609.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-bind--aria-label=\"state.thisImage.triggerButtonAriaLabel\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.thisImage.buttonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.thisImage.buttonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">DNa inscription at Naqshe Rostam<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>DNa in English<\/strong>. The passage below follows the English text presented alongside the Old Persian transcription in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/sources\/content\/achaemenid-royal-inscriptions\/dna\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Livius&#8217;s edition of DNa<\/a>. Spellings vary between editions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A great god is Ahura Mazda, who created this earth, who created yonder sky, who created man, who created happiness for man, who made Darius king, one king of many, one lord of many.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I am Darius the great king, king of kings, king of countries containing all kinds of men, king in this great earth far and wide, son of Hystaspes, an Achaemenid, a Persian, son of a Persian, an <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/aryans-history\/\" title=\"The Aryans History: A Journey Through Culture, Legacy, and Migration\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\" data-wpil-monitor-id=\"212240\">Aryan<\/a>, having Aryan lineage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">King Darius says: By the favor of Ahuramazda these are the countries which I seized outside of Persia; I ruled over them; they bore tribute to me; they did what was said to them by me; they held my law firmly; Media, <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/ancient-elam\/\" title=\"Ancient Elam Empire: An Ancient Powerhouse of Persia\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\" data-wpil-monitor-id=\"212823\">Elam<\/a>, Parthia, Aria, Bactria, Sogdia, Chorasmia, Drangiana, Arachosia, Sattagydia, Gandara [Gad\u00e2ra], India [Hidu\u0161], the haoma-drinking Scythians, the Scythians with pointed caps, Babylonia, Assyria, Arabia, Egypt, Armenia, Cappadocia, Lydia, the Greeks (Yauna), the Scythians across the sea (Sak\u00e2), Thrace, the petasos-wearing Greeks [Yaun\u00e2], the Libyans, the Nubians, the men of Maka and the Carians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">King Darius says: Ahuramazda, when he saw this earth in commotion, thereafter bestowed it upon me, made me king; I am king. By the favor of Ahuramazda I put it down in its place; what I said to them, that they did, as was my desire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If now you shall think that &#8220;How many are the countries which King Darius held?&#8221; look at the sculptures [of those] who bear the throne, then shall you know, then shall it become known to you: the spear of a Persian man has gone forth far; then shall it become known to you: a Persian man has delivered battle far indeed from Persia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Darius the King says: This which has been done, all that by the will of Ahuramazda I did. Ahuramazda bore me aid, until I did the work. May Ahuramazda protect me from harm, and my royal house, and this land: this I pray of Ahuramazda, this may Ahuramazda give to me!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">O man, that which is the command of Ahuramazda, let this not seem repugnant to you; do not leave the right path; do not rise in rebellion!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">DNa inscription of Darius I.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tomb-of-xerxes-circa-465-bce\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"tomb-of-xerxes-circa-465-bce\"><\/span>Tomb of Xerxes (circa 465 BCE)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"520\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Xerxes-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74324\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Xerxes-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Tomb-of-Xerxes-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tomb of Xerxes, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The easternmost tomb is conventionally attributed to Xerxes, although no inscription names its owner. Its upper relief shows the king standing before an altar, rather than sitting on a throne. Representatives of the subject peoples support the platform below. The columned middle register recalls a palace fa\u00e7ade, as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/articles\/place\/naqs-e-rustam\/naqs-e-rustam-photos\/naqs-e-rustam-achaemenid-tomb-iv\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lendering explains<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-inside-the-tomb-of-xerxes\">Inside the Tomb of Xerxes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The tomb attributed to Xerxes has a burial chamber containing rock-cut graves. The surviving spaces do not securely identify a particular grave as that of Amestris.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Xerxes, the son of Darius the Great and the fourth emperor of the Achaemenid Empire, led numerous battles during his reign. His life came to an abrupt end when he was assassinated in his sleeping quarters by Artabanus, the head of the royal guard, and a eunuch named Mithridates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-sassanian-reliefs-at-naqsh-e-rostam\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"sassanian-reliefs-at-naqsh-e-rostam\"><\/span>Sassanian Reliefs at Naqsh-e Rostam<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We&#8217;ll briefly explore the Sassanian kings&#8217; reliefs at Naqsh-e Rostam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-relief-of-ahura-mazda-and-ardeshir-i\">Relief of Ahura Mazda and Ardeshir I<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"519\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Relief-of-Ahura-Mazda-and-Ardeshir-I-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74327\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Relief-of-Ahura-Mazda-and-Ardeshir-I-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Relief-of-Ahura-Mazda-and-Ardeshir-I-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x511.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Relief of Ahura Mazda and Ardeshir I, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ardeshir I, also called Ardashir, receives a ring of royal authority from the mounted Ahura Mazda. An attendant with a fly-whisk stands behind the king. In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/articles\/place\/naqs-e-rustam\/naqs-e-rustam-photos\/naqs-e-rustam-investiture-relief-of-ardasir-i\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lendering&#8217;s interpretation<\/a>, the fallen figures beneath the horses are the Parthian king Artabanus and Ahriman. Ahura Mazda holds a <em>barsom<\/em>, a bundle of sacred twigs, in his other hand. The paired victories present the new dynasty&#8217;s rule as divinely sanctioned. Ardeshir&#8217;s horse bears a pendant inscribed in three languages: Parthian, Middle Persian (Pahlavi), and Greek, stating:<br>&#8220;This is the figure of Mazda-worshipping divine Ardeshir, king of kings of Iran, whose seed is from the gods, son of the divine Babak, king.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>On the body of Ahura Mazda&#8217;s horse, an inscription reads:<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;This figure is the god Lord Ahura Mazda.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-relief-of-hormizd-ii-s-battle\">Relief of Hormizd II&#8217;s Battle<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"517\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Relief-of-Hormizd-IIs-Battle-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74328\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Relief-of-Hormizd-IIs-Battle-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Relief-of-Hormizd-IIs-Battle-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x509.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Relief of Hormizd II&#8217;s Battle, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran (photo by Wikidata)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hormizd II&#8217;s mounted combat relief lies below the Achaemenid tombs. The king drives his lance at another horseman, while a standard-bearer follows behind him. The opponent&#8217;s identity remains uncertain. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/articles\/place\/naqs-e-rustam\/naqs-e-rustam-photos\/naqs-e-rustam-relief-of-hormizd-ii\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lendering&#8217;s description<\/a> dates the king&#8217;s reign to 303\u2013309 CE; the relief does not establish that his opponent was Iranian.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-unfinished-relief-of-adur-narseh\">Damaged Royal Relief Attributed to Shapur II<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A badly damaged royal scene survives above Hormizd II&#8217;s battle relief. A seated king faces figures at the right. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/articles\/place\/naqs-e-rustam\/naqs-e-rustam-photos\/naqs-e-rustam-relief-of-shapur-ii\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lendering attributes it to Shapur II<\/a>, who reigned from 309 to 379 CE. Its poor condition makes the details difficult to read; identifying it confidently as an unfinished portrait of Adur Narseh goes beyond the surviving evidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-relief-of-shapur-i-s-battle\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"relief-of-shapur-is-battle\"><\/span>Relief of Shapur I&#8217;s Battle<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"446\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Relief-of-Shapur-Is-Battle-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74331\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Relief-of-Shapur-Is-Battle-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Relief-of-Shapur-Is-Battle-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x439.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Relief of Shapur I&#8217;s Battle, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran (photo by Wikipedia)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shapur I\u2019s triumph relief stands near Darius I\u2019s tomb. In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/articles\/place\/naqs-e-rustam\/naqs-e-rustam-photos\/naqs-e-rustam-relief-of-shapur-i\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Jona Lendering\u2019s identification<\/a>, Philip the Arab kneels before the king\u2019s horse, while Shapur holds the hand of the standing Valerian. Valerian\u2019s capture in 260 CE provides the earliest possible date for the scene. Gordian III is not the standing figure; his death appears in the related relief programme at Bishapur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Kartir, the Zoroastrian priest, appears behind Shapur. His figure was added under Bahram II, after the triumph scene. The emblem on his cap and raised hand help identify him. Shapur\u2019s written account of the Roman campaigns is on the Ka\u02bfba-ye Zardosht opposite the relief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bas-relief of Bahram II and Courtiers<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"585\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bas-relief-of-Bahram-II-and-Courtiers-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74332\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bas-relief-of-Bahram-II-and-Courtiers-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bas-relief-of-Bahram-II-and-Courtiers-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bas-relief of Bahram II and Courtiers, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran (photo by Wikimedia Commons)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The photograph shows a standing court audience, rather than a cavalry battle. Bahram II faces the viewer with his hands resting on his sword, surrounded by members of the court. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/articles\/place\/naqs-e-rustam\/naqs-e-rustam-photos\/naqs-e-rustam-first-relief-of-bahram-ii\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lendering&#8217;s study of the audience relief<\/a> identifies Kartir among the figures at the left by the emblem on his cap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bahram II&#8217;s audience portrait and his equestrian monuments are separate carvings. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/articles\/place\/naqs-e-rustam\/naqs-e-rustam-photos\/naqs-e-rustam-third-relief-of-bahram-ii\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">double combat relief below Darius I&#8217;s tomb<\/a> has two registers of mounted fighting. In the upper scene a standard-bearer follows the king; fallen opponents lie beneath the royal horses. The defeated riders cannot be securely named, so the carving should not be treated as a portrait of a particular rebellion or Roman campaign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Elamite Bas-relief | Beneath Bahram II&#8217;s Bas-relief<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"585\" height=\"780\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Elamite-Bas-relief-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74335\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Elamite Bas-relief, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fragments of older Elamite carvings survive around Bahram II&#8217;s audience relief, which cut away much of the earlier composition. Look for the small capped figure at the right and a woman&#8217;s head with a mural crown at the left. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/articles\/place\/naqs-e-rustam\/naqs-e-rustam-photos\/naqs-e-rustam-elamite-relief\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lendering distinguishes these fragments<\/a>, tentatively dated to the eighth century BCE, from an older scene below with seated deities and a serpent-shaped throne, attributed to the seventeenth century BCE. These are proposed dates for different phases, rather than proof of an alliance between Elamites and Persians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-bas-relief-of-bahram-iii\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"equestrian-battle-reliefs\"><\/span>Equestrian Battle Reliefs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"517\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bas-relief-of-Bahram-III-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74336\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bas-relief-of-Bahram-III-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bas-relief-of-Bahram-III-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x509.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Equestrian combat relief, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Naqsh-e Rostam has several scenes of mounted combat associated with Bahram II. Besides the double scene below Darius I&#8217;s tomb, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.livius.org\/articles\/place\/naqs-e-rustam\/naqs-e-rustam-photos\/naqs-e-rustam-second-relief-of-bahram-ii\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">separate equestrian relief below the tomb attributed to Darius II<\/a> shows the king attacking a rider whose helmet resembles Roman equipment. That resemblance does not securely identify the opponent. The photograph illustrates mounted combat; neither a youthful appearance nor the absence of a clearly visible crown establishes a portrait of Bahram III.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-bas-relief-of-anahita-and-narseh-coronation-of-narseh\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"narseh-and-the-ring-of-royal-authority\"><\/span>Narseh and the Ring of Royal Authority<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"520\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bas-relief-of-Anahita-and-Narseh-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74337\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bas-relief-of-Anahita-and-Narseh-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bas-relief-of-Anahita-and-Narseh-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Narseh with a female figure whose identity is debated, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Narseh, a son of Shapur I and father of Hormizd II, holds a ribboned ring with a female figure while a smaller royal figure stands between them. The woman&#8217;s identity is debated. She has often been called the goddess Anahita, but Ursula Weber&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iranicaonline.org\/articles\/narseh-sasanian-king\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Encyclopaedia Iranica study of Narseh<\/a> discusses the case for his wife Shapurdukhtak and interprets the scene as an assertion of royal authority. The carving should not be dated to a supposed death in 300 CE merely because parts appear unfinished.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-unadorned-carved-panel\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"unadorned-carved-panel\"><\/span>Unadorned Carved Panel<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"517\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Unadorned-Carved-Panel-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74338\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Unadorned-Carved-Panel-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Unadorned-Carved-Panel-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x509.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Unadorned Carved Panel, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran (photo by Wikipedia)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To the west of Narseh&#8217;s coronation scene by Anahita, there is a large, polished panel without any carvings, resembling the panel known as Farhad Tarash in Bisotun. Experts associate both panels with Khosrow Parviz, who might have intended to leave a grandiose portrait of himself but was prevented by his defeat to the Byzantine emperor. In 1821, a wealthy local ordered a 24-line Persian Nasta&#8217;liq inscription of the Hajiabad land deed to be carved into this panel. The only features on this panel are three large square holes, and beside it, a Qajar period inscription related to the division of water and agricultural lands is visible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cube-of-zoroaster\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"cube-of-zoroaster\"><\/span>Cube of Zoroaster<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"520\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Cube-of-Zoroaster-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74341\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Cube-of-Zoroaster-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Cube-of-Zoroaster-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Cube of Zoroaster, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>Cube of Zoroaster<\/strong> at Naqsh-e Rostam is a majestic stone structure characterized by its quadrangular, stair-stepped design, situated opposite the Tomb of Darius II within the ancient ensemble of Naqsh-e Rostam. This edifice incorporates various stone types, including black and white limestone, reminiscent of those used in Persepolis, indicating its Achaemenid era origin. The construction utilizes large, rectangular stones assembled without mortar, connected by dovetail clamps, showcasing precise dimensional and proportional accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The tower contains one elevated chamber, reached originally by a northern stairway. Shapur I\u2019s later inscription appears in Middle Persian on the east wall, Parthian on the west and Greek on the south. Kartir\u2019s Middle Persian inscription lies below Shapur\u2019s on the east wall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-function-of-the-structure\">Function of the Structure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Cube&#8217;s original purpose remains debated, with several theories proposed:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Fire temple:<\/strong> A proposed interpretation, challenged by the absence of a smoke outlet and the originally closed stone door.<\/li><li><strong>Royal tomb:<\/strong> The enclosed chamber and elevated base have been compared with funerary architecture.<\/li><li><strong>Archive or repository:<\/strong> This interpretation rests partly on a disputed reading of Kartir\u2019s inscription.<\/li><li><strong>Dynastic or coronation building:<\/strong> Scholars have also proposed a role in royal ceremonies. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iranicaonline.org\/articles\/kaba-ye-zardost\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Iranica\u2019s survey<\/a> explains the competing arguments; the original function remains unsettled.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-kartir-s-inscription\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"kartirs-inscription\"><\/span>Kartir&#8217;s Inscription<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"608\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Kartirs-Inscription-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74343\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Kartirs-Inscription-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Kartirs-Inscription-Naqsh-e-Rostam-Shiraz-Iran-1-768x599.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Kartir&#8217;s Inscription, Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz, Iran<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Kartir, a Zoroastrian high priest with significant influence among Sassanian kings, commissioned an inscription detailing his life and contributions, likely carved during Bahram II&#8217;s reign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-dual-stone-fire-altars\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"dual-stone-fire-altars\"><\/span>Dual Stone Fire Altars<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"583\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Dual-Stone-Fire-Altars-Naqsh-e-Rostam-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74346\" style=\"width:780px;height:auto\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Dual-Stone-Fire-Altars-Naqsh-e-Rostam-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Dual-Stone-Fire-Altars-Naqsh-e-Rostam-1-768x574.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Dual Stone Fire Altars, Naqsh-e Rostam (photo by Flickr)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Two carved stone structures on the slope of Hossein Kuh are commonly described as Sasanian fire altars. Von Gall also records Dietrich Huff&#8217;s interpretation of them as <em>astodans<\/em>, structures for holding human remains. Their function is disputed; assigning a separate fire ritual to each goes beyond the evidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-fortress-and-protective-walls\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"fortress-and-protective-walls\"><\/span>Fortress and Protective Walls<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Fortress-and-Protective-Walls-of-Naqsh-e-Rostam-1.jpg\" alt=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" class=\"wp-image-74347\" title=\"Naqsh-e Rostam: Persia&apos;s Ancient Necropolis\" srcset=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Fortress-and-Protective-Walls-of-Naqsh-e-Rostam-1.jpg 780w, https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Fortress-and-Protective-Walls-of-Naqsh-e-Rostam-1-768x426.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Fortress and Protective Walls of Naqsh-e Rostam<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A fortified enclosure once surrounded much of the sculpted cliff. Its ends met the rock, and seven semicircular towers strengthened the wall, according to von Gall&#8217;s account of Schmidt&#8217;s excavations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-water-well\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"water-well\"><\/span>Water Well<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Excavators found a polygonal, rock-cut cistern west of the cliff, measuring about 7.2 metres across. This water-storage feature should be distinguished from the tomb chambers and the freestanding stone tower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-text-color has-background\" style=\"color:#000000;background-color:#ffffff\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:64px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-text-color has-small-font-size wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#1e0e7c;line-height:.9\"><strong>BOOK ONLINE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color\" id=\"h-shiraz-hotels\" style=\"color:#1e0e7c;font-size:35px\">Shiraz Hotels<\/h6>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-7d812b4c wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-50\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/orienttrips.com\/hotel-list\/shiraz?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=surfiran\" style=\"border-radius:50px;color:#ffffff;background-color:#f94931\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-white-color\">Book Now<\/mark><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:64px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-words\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"final-words\"><\/span>Final Words<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read the cliff in layers. The Achaemenid tomb fa\u00e7ades stand above later Sasanian scenes of investiture, court ceremony and mounted combat; older Elamite fragments survive where subsequent carvings did not erase them. Compare the figures and their positions with the descriptions above rather than treating every relief as part of one event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"references\"><\/span>References<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Frye, R. N. (1982). <em>The Aramaic Inscription on the Tomb of Darius<\/em>. Iranica Antiqua, 17, 85\u201390.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Von Gall, H. (2009; updated 2012). <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iranicaonline.org\/articles\/naqs-e-rostam\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Naq\u0161-e Rostam<\/a>. <em>Encyclopaedia Iranica<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Explore the historic Naqsh-e Rostam, a necropolis &amp; rock reliefs complex near Persepolis. Learn more about the grandeur of the Elamite, Achaemenid &amp; Sassanian dynasties.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":72425,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15738,15780,308,1],"tags":[7500,628],"class_list":["post-72285","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-shiraz","category-attractions","category-destinations","category-tourism-iran","tag-shiraz","tag-travel-guide"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Naqsh-e-Rostam.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/72285","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=72285"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/72285\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":203042,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/72285\/revisions\/203042"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/72425"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=72285"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=72285"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=72285"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}