Iran: the ancient city at Takht-e-Soleyman
near Noşratābād, Āz̄ārbāyjān-e Gharbī (Iran)
Viewed 1120 times, downloaded 13 times
Trail photos
Itinerary description
An unforgettable ancient circular walled city. There is a small museum a the site. Historical accounts indicate it was the summer palace of Abaqa Kahn (1265-82), 2'nd ruler of the Ilkhanid Dynasty. Construction began in 1271 on top of ancient ruins of a important Zoroastrian fire temple. The Ilkhanids were a conquering nomadic people of Mongol origin, and at the time Abaqa Kahn remained focused on the military conquest of new lands to the west. The Ilkhanids conducted administrative and courtly duties within this summer pleasure and military outpost, with many trials, appointments with foreign rulers and courts, celebrations, and enthronements. It was also a place for the elite, the Ilkhanid court, and soldiers, a place for pleasure and fulfillment.
The site has architectural connections to the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle, for example there is a cluster of stone 'yurt' ('ger') shaped structures in the center courtyard. The Mongols had their Capital City in China at that time and Chinese -Iranian connections are also apparent.
The volcano climb, several kilometers to the west of the ruins, is an essential part of the visit, said to be a military post and execution site of that time. View the track in satellite mode and zoom in on the volcano. It is a unique type, a travertine volcano with a hollow vertical cylindrical core.
The track includes the drive between parking lot at the ruins and the Volcano. There is a small town midway. Get lots of water before starting the volcano climb! there is danger approaching the peak, No Guard Rails!
Waypoints
Parking for Ancient City
Below the anciant city walls. Views towards travertine volcano in west (second part of track climbs this volcano)
City Gate
Sections of the circular wall along the south side of are mostly still standing, including entrance gate
Spring
Geologically this may be part of the same system that created the travertine volcano to the west, and others nearby. In ancient times was apparently a spa city with harem and indoor pools.
Ruins
The ancient city in mostly unrestored. An Unesco Site. Glimpses into ancient spleandours.
Ascent of volcanic cone
There are ancient trails, rock walls and guard houses up the volcano side. These small compounds could be for the guards and prisoners on the way to the top.
Volcano Shaft
This is a hollow tube travertine volcano, with a circular shaft going straight down for over 100 meters. The peak is said to be an ancient execution site.
You can add a comment or review this trail
Comments