Takht-e Soleyman (Throne of Solomon) is an archeological site representing a masterpiece of human creative genius. Dating back to Sasanian period (6th and 7th centuries), Takht-e Soleyman lies in the West Azerbaijan Province in Iran. The site used to be a harmonic composition of nature, fire temple and royal palace. An artesian lake and a volcano are the natural elements of the site, showing the ingenious human interaction with the environment. Life in this area depended on both the lake and the temple which provided water and fire, essential elements of life.
The lake is located in the middle of a remote plain, surrounded by mountains. A fortified platform had been built all around the lake holding Zoroastrian fire temple, Anahita’s Temple and a Sasanian Royal ensemble. Although the site was devastated at the end of the Sasanian era and partially rebuilt in 13th century, it’s ruins are precious enough to illustrate a significant stage in human history.
Takht-e Soleyman is considered the most important site for the early monotheistic faith of Zoroastrianism in the Sasanian empire. Not only Islamic architecture was inspired by the design of the fire temple and the general layout of the site, but also eastern and western cultures benefited from it as an architectural reference. The site holds other archeological mounds and mountains among which the most famous one is Zendan-e Soleyman (lit: Prison of Solomon) located in the eastern part of the region.
Overall, integrity of the special nature, remaining symbols of the Zoroastrian sanctuary, and the remains of the royal Sasanian dynasty are the valuable Universal prototype of ancient events, living, ideas and beliefs.
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