Palace of Ardashir

Palace of Ardashir I (Ardashir Babakan) is known as Firuzabad Fire temple which located in Firuzabad, Fars province.

Palace of Ardashir was the biggest fire temple throughout the Fars province. This monument dates back to the Sasanian era with a history of 1800 years ago. Firuzabad was known as Ardashir-Khwarrah city or Shahr-e Gour in the past. Palace of Ardashir was the second main monuments after the Ardashir-Khwarrah from the Sasanian era. Moreover, this palace was the principal residence of the king. Ardashir chose there to build the palace due to the existence of a pond near this area.
 

• Architecture

Using different architectural techniques was the main point in the construction of this palace. It was the biggest fire temple which made of rubble and plaster. They endeavored to use the local material provided from their town. The Palace of Ardashir included three sections as follows: A high porch (Iwan), three domes above the halls, and a courtyard with two porches.

The architectural style of this palace established a pattern for many other monuments in Iran. Some archaeologists believe the Palace of Ardashir was the first ancient structure that included porch (Iwan), vault, and dome in the Sasanian era.
 

During the visit this palace, you will see one of the prominent samples of Stucco in the Sasanian era. The halls link to each other. On the east side of the palace, you will see three halls with three domes above them. These three halls were the place of three sacred fire. Moreover, Khishkhan is a fascinating architectural element which used in the wall of this monument in order to flow the air.

• What is the best time to go?

  Late March till late June is the best time to visit the Palace of Ardashir. It is better to know some information about visiting time and the payment of it.
   
  • Visiting the Palace of Ardashir for everyone is free.
  • During Spring and Summer, you can visit the Palace of Ardashir from 07:30 AM until 8:00 PM.
  • During Autumn and Winter, you can visit the Palace of Ardashir from 8:00 AM until 6:00 PM.

• Getting there:

The Palace of Ardashir located into the Atashkadeh village 95 kilometers from Shiraz. Also, it is situated two kilometers north of Gour city.