Bisotun

The Bisotun historical and cultural site is an ancient archaeological complex that reflects various historical periods, including prehistoric times, the pre-Islamic era, and post-Islamic civilizations. Located at the base of Mount Bisotun in the town of Bisotun, it lies along the ancient and historic route connecting Kermanshah to Hamadan. This cultural and historical complex was officially added to Iran's National Heritage List on September 29, 2002. As of July 8, 2005, 28 historical elements from the Bisotun area have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Historical Background of Bisotun

Mount Bisotun is situated alongside a major ancient thoroughfare that was once a vital route for caravans and military campaigns moving between the cities of Babylon and Baghdad toward the Zagros Mountains and Ecbatana. This strategic location made it an ideal site for rulers to display their power and the grandeur of their empires.

Etymology of Bisotun

The name “Bisotun” derives from the ancient word “Bagastana,” meaning “the place of the gods.” In Old Persian, "Bag" means "god," and the suffix “-stan” denotes "place"—together, “place of the gods.” Interestingly, the name Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, also carries a similar meaning: “God-given,” with "Bagh" meaning "god" and "dad" meaning "given." The Greek historian Ctesias was the first to mention Bisotun in his writings, where he associated the site with Semiramis, the legendary Assyrian queen. The inscriptions at Bisotun were believed to be offerings to Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity in ancient Iranian religion. In Islamic texts, Bisotun was referred to as “Beh Setoun” or “the best pillar,” emphasizing its grandeur. In modern times, some have mistakenly interpreted the name to mean “without pillars,” a claim with no historical or linguistic basis.

Mount Bisotoon

Mount Bisotun is one of the most famous mountains in Iran, located near the town of Bisotun and about 32 kilometers east of Kermanshah. Its prominent rock face, where the famous Bisotun inscription is carved, stands at an elevation of 1,200 meters and spans over 5,000 square meters. It is considered the fifth highest rock wall in the world. Each year, this majestic site attracts thousands of tourists and visitors from around the world.