Attractions and Places To See in the Zagros Mountains - Top 18

Palace of Ardashir I. Near Firuzabad, Iran, stands the Palace of Ardashir I, built around 224 CE, marking the rise of the Sasanian Empire. Ardashir I, who overthrew the Parthians and founded a new dynasty, built this grand palace to display his power. Its most impressive features are its huge domed halls—among the earliest examples of Sasanian dome construction—and its great iwans, or vaulted halls. The palace was part of the circular city of Ardashir-Khurrah, reflecting the Sasanians’ vision of order and authority. Together with the nearby fortress and city ruins, it forms part of the UNESCO-listed Archaeological Landscape of Fars, a testament to Sasanian innovation and influence.

The Palace of Ardashir I, also known as the Atesh-Kadeh or Fire Temple, is an impressive Sasanian-era monument located near Firuzabad in the Fars province of Iran. Built around 224 CE by Ardashir I, the founder of the Sasanian Empire, it served as a royal residence and a symbol of his power and authority. The palace is a significant example of early Sasanian architecture, featuring three large domes, a grand iwan or arched porch, and a unique design that is a precursor to later Sasanian palaces. It was strategically built on the banks of a river and a natural spring, which likely fed a royal garden, creating a picturesque and serene setting. The palace's construction from local rubble and mortar, combined with intricate plasterwork, showcases the ingenuity and artistry of its builders. The site is not just a palace but also a testament to the cultural and religious shifts of the time. While some sources identify it as a palace, others suggest it had a religious function, possibly as a fire temple. The presence of a spring and a pond has led to speculation that the site was linked to the Persian goddess of water and growth, Anahita. This dual nature, as both a political and potentially religious center, highlights the close relationship between the ruling class and the state religion of Zoroastrianism. Exploring the ruins, visitors can see the remnants of the grand halls and a staircase that led to the upper floors, offering a glimpse into the daily life and ceremonial activities of the Sasanian court. For those planning to visit, the best time to go is during the cooler months of the year, from late autumn to early spring, to avoid the intense summer heat of the region. The palace is located a few kilometers from the modern city of Firuzabad, and a visit can easily be combined with other historical sites in the area, such as the nearby Qal'eh Dokhtar (Maiden's Castle), another fortress built by Ardashir I. The site is a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the rich heritage of ancient Iran. A key travel tip is to wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and to bring plenty of water, as there are limited facilities on-site. The sheer scale and historical significance of the palace make it a truly unforgettable experience.

Monument to the war correspondents - the only one in the world. It was only the war correspondents' photos that alerted the public. Among the first photographers to document the events were the later Pulitzer Prize winner Kaveh Golestan, who witnessed the attack by the fighter planes from a distance, and the Turkish photographer Ramazan Öztürk. On March 21, 1988, Iranian authorities flew western journalists to Halabja by helicopter to inform the world. The journalists filmed and took photographs. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giftgasattack_auf_Halabdscha https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaveh_Golestan https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iran%E2%80%93Iraq_War https://anfdeutsch.com/kultur/16-marz-1988-giftgas-auf-helebce-25080

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The Vank Church in Isfahan, is one of the most important Armenian churches in the country and a must-see for any visit to the Armenian Quarter. Built in the 17th century, the church is a masterpiece of Armenian architecture and art. One of the most notable features of the church are the magnificent frescoes and paintings on the walls and ceiling that tell stories from the Old and New Testaments. The artworks showcase a unique blend of Armenian, Persian, and European artistic traditions, providing a fascinating insight into Armenian culture and history. In addition, the church also houses a museum exhibiting Armenian manuscripts, books, and works of art. Here one can learn more about the rich culture and history of the Armenian community.

The so-called Pink Mosque. Entry costs 1 million rials for foreigners.

A spectacular view of the city. The climb is always worth it. You can hike up straight from the start of the park or take the cable car and hike up the last (steepest) stretch. Cable car costs 700,000 rials for locals and 1.5 million rials for foreigners for a round trip.

Do not take bags with you when visiting. (Admission control) In the warmer months of the year it is essential to bring sun protection with you. (Hat) An imposing complex.