Taq-e Bostan

Home to the splendid inscriptions and carvings of the Sassanid era, Taq-e Bostan sits in the northwest of Kermanshah, west of Iran.

Known as Taq-e Vosan in Kurdish, San means stone and the whole name literally means stone arch. Built in the third century AD, it was a residence for the Sassanid kings who initially selected the lands around Persepolis to do their gorgeous stone carvings and once Artaxerxes II came to throne, he chose the profuse, abundant land on the Silk Road in Kermanshah.

Exhibiting 2 arches, the chiseled stone structure is among the most splendid engraved constructions across the country. The small arch showcases Shahpur II and III and the large one represents Khosrow Parviz. On the right hand side of the small arch, stands a chiseled inscription which depicts the coronation of Artaxerxes II.

Proportionately designed arches illustrate impressive build quality; the large arch is 7.5 m wide, 9 m high and 6.5 m deep and the small has a width of 6 m, height of 5 m, and depth of 3.5 m.

What makes it truly a must-visit option is the scenic landscape around; a delightful spring surrounded by tall trees and beautiful plants have made it the most photographed quarter in the province. You are recommended to go and enjoy the glory of the Persian kings’ territory and the attractive scene at night, when nice lighting extremely beautifies the spot.

Apart from the artistic values of the inscriptions and arches, the history and culture of the time is presented through the figures’ clothing, customs and traditions depicted in the heart of solid rocks.