|
|
Pasargadae
Pasargadae, in southwestern Iran about 48 km (30 mi) northeast of Persepolis, was the capital of Cyrus the Great (550-530 BC), founder of the Persian empire. The site supposedly marks the place where Cyrus defeated the Medes and established Persian independence. Archaeologists believe that the coronation of later kings occurred there and that it was the site of both a major imperial treasury and Cyrus's tomb.
Tomb of Cyrus the Great
Excavations at Pasargadae, begun in 1928, have revealed a fortified citadel with a stone platform that was intended as a foundation for a palace but was instead used as a base for a storehouse, possibly the treasury. A residential palace surrounded by a park and also a columned audience hall have been found as well as a sacred precinct containing three temples. A large stone tower, once called a fire altar, is now thought to have been a storage place for sacred emblems. To the south stands the 12-m-high (40-ft) tomb of Cyrus, built of huge limestone blocks.
If you have any questions or comments feel free to e-mail me.
Senior Project : 2001-2002 The Great Persian Empire Website
