Persepolis
تخت جمشید
The ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. The Gate of All Nations, the reliefs of the Apadana Palace and the ruins of the Hall of One Hundred Columns make up this World Heritage Site.
Persepolis was begun in 518 BC under Darius I. In 330 BC it was burned by Alexander the Great. It was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1979. The ruins stand on a massive stone platform. The most impressive features are the human-headed winged bulls at the Gate of All Nations and the reliefs on the Apadana Palace stairway showing envoys from different nations bringing tribute. Royal tombs on the hill behind the site offer panoramic views. Persepolis is about 60 km from Shiraz, a private car takes about an hour, and a visit takes about three hours. Bring a hat and water.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–17:00 (extended hours in summer)
Nearby sights
- Naqsh-e Rajab
- Naqsh-e Rostam
- Pasargadae
- Tomb of Saadi
- Qur'an Gate
- Delgosha Garden
- Jahan Nama Garden
- Tomb of Hafez