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Saeid Zare
فارسی

Sassanid Glory Day Tour

A full-day journey from Shiraz to the birthplace of the Sassanid Empire, exploring Qal'eh Dokhtar, the rock reliefs of Ardashir I, the ancient city of Ardashir Khurreh, and the Palace of Ardashir.

  • 8 hours
  • History & Culture
  • Small group (max 12 people)
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Tour Introduction

The Sassanid Glory Day Tour takes you from Shiraz to Firuzabad, one of the most important landscapes associated with the rise of the Sassanid Empire.

Our journey begins at Qal'eh Dokhtar, a strategic fortress built by Ardashir I before his final victory over the Parthian Empire.

We then visit the remarkable rock reliefs of Ardashir, depicting important moments connected with his rise to power and the establishment of the Sassanid dynasty.

The journey continues to Ardashir Khurreh, also known as the ancient city of Gur, an extraordinary circular city that became one of the earliest political centers of the new Sassanid state.

Our final major stop is the Palace of Ardashir, one of the most impressive surviving examples of early Sassanid architecture.

Throughout the tour, we explore the story of Ardashir I, the fall of the Parthian Empire, the birth of the Sassanid Empire, and the distinctive architecture and urban planning of early Sassanid Persia.

This tour is ideal for travelers interested in Persian history, archaeology, architecture, photography, and World Heritage sites.

Tour features

  • Cultural experience

    Discover local history, art, and traditions

  • Local guide

    With a professional guide who knows the region’s history

  • Comfortable transfer

    Standard and safe transportation

  • Photography-friendly

    Visits to the best photo locations

  • Precise planning

    Smart timing and full visits to key sights

  • Small group

    A more intimate, higher-quality experience

Highlights

Qal'eh Dokhtar Ardashir Rock Reliefs Ancient Circular City of Gur Palace of Ardashir The Rise of the Sassanid Empire Sassanid Architecture and Urban Planning UNESCO World Heritage Sites Historical Photography Full-Day Trip from Shiraz

Itinerary

01

Day 1

From Ardashir's Rebellion to the Birth of the Sassanid Empire

We depart from Shiraz in the morning and travel toward Firuzabad, a region closely connected with one of the most important turning points in ancient Persian history: the rise of Ardashir I and the birth of the Sassanid Empire.

Our first stop is Qal'eh Dokhtar, a strategic fortress associated with Ardashir's rise to power. Here, we explore its defensive position, architectural features, and its role during the final years of the Parthian period.

We then continue to the rock reliefs of Ardashir I, where scenes related to his victory, rise to power, and royal legitimacy are carved into the rock.

The journey continues to the ancient city of Gur, also known as Ardashir Khurreh. This remarkable circular city became one of the earliest political and administrative centers of the Sassanid state. During the visit, we explore its unique urban plan and learn about early Sassanid city planning.

After a break for lunch, we visit the Palace of Ardashir, one of the most impressive examples of early Sassanid architecture, known for its monumental arches, domed halls, and distinctive design.

Throughout the journey, we follow the story of the fall of the Parthian Empire, the rise of Ardashir I, the foundation of the Sassanid Empire, and the lasting influence of Sassanid architecture and urban planning on Persian history.

After time for photography and relaxation, we return to Shiraz in the late afternoon.

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