Persepolis

波斯波利斯

🇮🇹 Iran (Islamic Republic of)📅 1979 Inscribed

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Founded by Darius I in 518 B.C., Persepolis was the capital of the Achaemenid Empire. It was built on an immense half-artificial, half-natural terrace, where the king of kings created an impressive palace complex inspired by Mesopotamian models. The importance and quality of the monumental ruins make it a unique archaeological site.

Insight I

Ceremonial capital of the **Achaemenid Empire**, built by **Darius I in 518 BC**.

Insight II

The discovered **Achaemenid royal inscriptions** played a key role in the **decipherment of Cuneiform**.

Insight III

Destroyed by **Alexander the Great of the Macedonian Empire**.