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Iran

Behistun Inscription

Multilingual Achaemenid rock inscription and relief

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

The Behistun Inscription is a significant archaeological site located on a limestone cliff at Mount Behistun in Iran, created during the reign of Darius the Great between 522 BCE and 486 BCE. This site features the longest known trilingual cuneiform inscription, consisting of Old Persian, Elamite, and Babylonian scripts, which played a crucial role in deciphering cuneiform writing. The inscription serves as a historical record of Darius' lineage, his ascension to power, and his military campaigns to suppress rebellions following the death of Cambyses II. Accompanying the text is a large bas-relief depicting Darius the Great, emphasizing his authority and victories. The Behistun Inscription's artistic and historical value is immense, contributing significantly to our understanding of the Achaemenid Empire and ancient Persian culture. It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Behistun Inscription

FileAnubanini_rock_relief_woodprint.jpg
FileAramaic_translation_of_the_behistun_inscripton.png
FileBehistunInscriptiondetail.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Artistic and Decorative Features

ReliefsInscriptions

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Iran
Source
Wikipedia