The Ancient And Forgotten Empire Of Persepolis

Recent questions

• What is the significance of Persepolis in ancient history?

  Persepolis, an ancient city in Iran built 2,500 years ago, was once the richest city in the world and served as the heart of Persian civilization. It was the capital of the Persian Empire, ruling the largest empire for 250 years. The city was built with a specific purpose, acting as a ceremonial and symbolic place for tribute and gifts from subject nations. The architecture of Persepolis, including the Gate of All Nations and the Apadana, showcased the power and grandeur of the Persian kings. Persepolis was essential in maintaining the vast Persian empire through symbolic gestures and tribute ceremonies, reinforcing loyalty and peace among subject nations.

• How did the Persians rule their empire?

  The Persians ruled their empire with a sense of peace and harmony, as depicted in reliefs found in Persepolis. They reinforced loyalty through gift-giving at the city, while also allowing for religious freedom and cultural preservation among subject nations. The Persians were unique in their approach, allowing subject nations to maintain their cultural settings and lives as long as they paid tribute and taxes to the Persian King. This benevolent rule challenged the idea of Persian propaganda, as independent accounts praised the Persians for their tolerant and respectful governance.

• What was the impact of the Persian road system?

  The Persian road system was crucial in controlling the vast empire, as it enabled quick communication and travel between Persepolis and other cities and regions. The Greeks were impressed by the messengers' speed and the staging posts that allowed for continuous travel with fresh horses. These staging posts also ensured safety for travelers and traders, protecting them from bandits and facilitating movement across the empire. The sophisticated road system was a testament to the Persians' organizational skills and their ability to maintain control over their vast territories.

• How did the Persians showcase their power through gardens?

  The Persians created the first formal gardens in the world, with irrigation channels and symbolic plantings, to showcase their power and control over nature. King Cyrus's garden, called Paradiso, reflected his love for gardens and symbolically represented the vastness and diversity of the Persian Empire. These gardens were not only aesthetically pleasing but also served as a demonstration of the Persians' wealth, status, and ability to harness nature for their own purposes. The gardens were a tangible representation of the empire's prosperity and sophistication.

• What was the legacy of Persepolis despite its destruction?

  Despite the destruction of Persepolis by Alexander the Great, the city's legacy endured through the preservation of artifacts buried under the ashes for 2,000 years. The excavations in the 1930s revealed insights into Persian life, showcasing their cultural achievements and the model of tolerance and respect that characterized their global Empire. The legacy of Persepolis lives on through the artifacts and discoveries that shed light on the rich history and cultural contributions of the ancient Persian civilization.