Overview:

Takht-e Rostam is a 3rd century BC fortress located in the western region of Herat in Afghanistan. The historic site is a national archaeological monument and has been the center of activity for centuries. It is one of the most notable sites in Herat and a powerful symbol for the city. The site is comprised of two main compounds that both provide sweeping views of the countryside. In the main courtyard, there are remnants of various buildings such as watchtowers, towers, and a walled parade area. The site also features a furnace room, a stable, a well, and a spring house. The walls of the compound are decorated with bas-relief stones and carvings, making it an impressive sight. Much of the site has remained untouched since the 3rd century BC. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Afghanistan
Prominent Features:

1. Royal Tombs: Takht-e Rostam is home to a majestic group of royal tombs that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. The tombs are believed to have belonged to the Timurid dynasty, and are decorated with delightful geometrical plasterwork. 2. Historic Mosque: The nearby Rostam Mosque, or Jameh-e Rostam, is one of Afghanistan's oldest mosques and dates back to the 11th century. It was built during the Ghaznavid period and is still active today. 3. Ancient Ruins: In addition to the tombs and mosque, the site contains several other ruins including the remains of a Zoroastrian fire temple and the 15th century castle of Qala-e Qazi. 4. Gorgeous View: Takht-e Rostam is situated on a hill which offers spectacular views over the city and surrounding areas. Visitors can stop here for a moment of reflection and peace. 5. Archeological Site: The site has been named an Archeological Site of National Outstanding Value due to its significant historical and cultural importance. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Afghanistan.

History:

Takht-e Rostam, also known as ‘the Throne of Rostam’ is a fortification located in Herat, Afghanistan. Built in the 16th century, the site was believed to be the political and spiritual hub of the region during the Safavid dynasty. The fortification is made of burnt bricks and has two towers, one circular and one rectangular. According to historical records, the circular tower was meant to be used as a royal throne. Nestled within the Kushk Valley, the fortification is believed to have been constructed by its namesake, Rostam, the legendary mighty warrior in the Persian epic poem, Shahnameh. Legends state that Takht-e Rostam was originally a large mountain that Rostam cut in two while trying to protect the city from a dragon. Many of the locals believed that Rostam was buried in a tomb at the site. The immense fortification was once home to an important garrison and a strong military presence during both the Safavid and Timurid periods. However, during the 18th century, Herat was occupied by Afghanistan, and the fortress passed through different hands before it was finally abandoned. Today, the fortification serves as a reminder of the historical heritage of Herat. Surrounded by a lush valley full of green, the site is popular among tourists and locals alike. Every year, visitors flock to Takht-e Rostam to admire its grandeur and to pay their respects to the legendary hero, Rostam. Visit one of the famous monuments of Afghanistan with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Takht-e Rostam is located in Herat, Afghanistan, and is a pre-Islamic archaeological site dating back to the 3rd century BC. 2. Takht-e Rostam consists of two walled-in mounds, one of which has a richly decorated palace complex and several stupas. 3. The site was once a Zoroastrian temple, and is now a popular tourist destination due to its historical significance, beautiful architecture, and scenic landscape. 4. The palace complex at Takht-e Rostam is believed to be the largest and most sophisticated building ever constructed in the region, and is known for its intricate stone carvings and beautiful stucco and stone-block decoration. 5. Takht-e Rostam is home to several ruins and monuments from the past, including a Buddhist temple, a Zoroastrian fire temple, and even a Hindu temple. 6. In the center of the palace complex is the throne of Nishabur, which is said to have belonged to the Parthian King Artaxerxes II. 7. Takht-e Rostam is also the site of many historic battles, including the battle of Canneh between the Parthians and the Seleucids in 247 BC. 8. Takht-e Rostam is known locally as the "Great Wall of Herat," which was built in the late 1400s as a defensive fortification. The wall is said to have been so strong that it withstood attack by the Mughals in 1584. One of the historical monuments of Afghanistan, it tells the story of a bygone era