Taq-e Bostan

Taq-e Bostan is an ancient site that includes the inscriptions and reliefs of the Sasanian Empire.

Taq-e Bostan dates back to the Sasanian Empire is located northwest of Kermanshah province. Taq-e Bostan was built in the 3rd-century that is considered as an artistic and historic remain. You will see four reliefs which narrate the coronation of Khosrow II, Ardashir II, Shapur II, Ardashir III, and some inscriptions in Pahlavi scripts. The existence of mountain and spring near the Taq-e Bostan has created a marvelous view from the past.

The name of this arch is Taq-e wesan in the local language of Kermanshah, which means the arch made of stone. Taq-e Bostan consists of two small and large Taq. Taq means a large arch. The large one narrates the coronation of Khosrow II, and the small narrates the coronation of Shapur II, Shapur III. Also, there is relief about the coronation of Ardashir II.

• The large Arch

At the entrance part of this arch, you will see the figure of winged angels, hunting, horse, and elephant which has carved on it. The coronation of Khosrow II is the most important figure of this large arch. There are three statues in this part that contains the Fravashi on the right, the Anahita on the left, and the king in the middle. It is better to know that the Fravashi is the concept of a personal spirit of an individual, whether dead, living, and yet-unborn and Anahita is the divinity of the waters and symbol of prosperity. Moreover, some figures of the women who are playing Harps and the other Musical Instruments is the other beautiful aspects of Taq-e Bostan.

• The small Arch

The figures of coronation of Shapur II and Shapur III has carved on this part. Also, this arch includes some inscriptions in Pahlavi scripts.

• The Petroglyph of Qajar era

There is a petroglyph dates back to the Qajar era with an inscription in Nastaʿlīq scripts which has carved in the Taq-e Bostan. This petroglyph is representing the statue of the son of Fath-Ali Shah Qajar.

• Visiting information

  It is better to know some information about visiting time and the payment of it.
   
  • During spring and summer you can visit the Taq-e Bostan from 8:00 AM until 8:00 PM.
  • During Autumn and Winter you can visit the Taq-e Bostan from 8:00 AM until 5:30 PM.

•  What is the best time to go?

The best time to visit Taq-e Bostan is from late May unill late August. During this period the average temperature in Kermanshah is about 24 ° C Celsius. Remember that the weather is too cold during the Winter.

• Getting there?

Taq-e Bostan is located northwest of Kermanshah province. You can reach there via private car or public transportation such as taxi. You can call 1881 after declaring your position, a taxi will be provided at your place after a few minutes.