Takht-e Suleyman

A World Heritage Site for World Heritage Travellers: Takht-e Suleyman

This archaeological site is located 45 km northeast of Takab in north-western Iran is in a valley set in a volcanic mountain region. Takht-e Suleyman or Azar Goshnasp which is related to fire and water, with its important symbolic significance was built by the fifth Bahram Vassan Sassanid and expanded by Khosrow Anooshiravan. This place was the biggest educational and religious center and the time before Islam.

Takht-e Soleyman was destroyed by Romania empire in 624 AD and rebuilt in the Ilkhanid period (13th century) as well as a temple of the Sasanian period which was dedicated to Anahita.

It is believed that Zoroaster was born in this city and it has been the site of the holy grail of Christ, which he drank on its last night of life. According to legend, Soleyman used to imprison and punish devils inside the 100m deep crater of a volcano, which is called “ Zendan-e Soleyman “.

This extraordinary site was recognized as a World Heritage Site in July 2003. The monument has got a volcano and a lake (fire and water), which stands as an exceptional testimony of the continuation of a cult over a period of 2,500 years.

This mysterious lake has got many stories behind itself. The most famous legend is the existence of some treasures in the depth of the lake, countless and endless treasure that accessing to, is not safe at all. So if you are interested in this fabulous area, just try to stay away from this weird and spiritual region.