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Taq-e Bostan
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monument
Taq-e Bostan, or "Arch of the Garden", is a remarkable ensemble of Sassanid-era rock reliefs carved directly into the rock walls of the Zagros Mountains, close to the city of Kermanshah. Created between the 4th and 7th centuries AD, these masterpieces were strategically placed near a scenic spring. The bas-reliefs partially housed inside two sculpted grottos detailed scenes of royal investiture where monarchs receive the symbols of power from Zoroastrian deities. Equally famous are the panels showing dynamic scenes of a royal hunt, rendering with astonishing precision details with wild boars, elephants, and Persian riders, demonstrating the refinement of Sassanid court art.
- Location: Iran
- Top sights: Tir Andazeh · Qiyah · Farrokhshad
- Nearby: Palangan (78 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 2 | 7 | 12 | 18 | 24 | 28 | 27 | 22 | 16 | 7 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 47 | 48 | 55 | 52 | 20 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 29 | 51 | 42 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Taq-e Bostan is a freely accessible open-air monument that can be visited at any time. The reliefs are located on a cliff face and are clearly visible from a small park.
Typical hours
As it is an open, unguarded site, access is theoretically possible around the clock. However, it is recommended to visit during daylight to see the details clearly.
Photography
Photography is unrestricted as no tickets or checks are in place. For particularly good shots a telephoto lens is recommended to capture the higher parts of the relief.
Time needed
Visiting the reliefs and the surrounding park typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes. Those interested in Sassanid iconography may spend a full hour viewing.
Combine with
In Kermanshah you can also visit the great Bazaar of Kermanshah and the archaeological museum. The nearby Bisotun with its famous rock reliefs is also worth a day trip.
Getting there
Taq-e Bostan is on the outskirts of Kermanshah city in western Iran and is easily accessible by bus or taxi. From the city centre it is about 10 minutes by bus to the 'Taq-e Bostan' stop.
Insider tip
An insider tip is to visit early morning when the sun directly illuminates the reliefs, making them appear especially three-dimensional. A short walk along the adjacent pond gives nice photo opportunities.
Geography
Facts
- The reliefs were created between the years 383 and 628 AD
- The scenes display the coronations of kings Ardashir II and Shapur III
- The main grotto has a spectacular height of approximately 9 meters
- The hunting scenes are elaborately sculpted on the side walls of the large grotto
- In the 19th century, the site was slightly damaged by reliefs added by the Qajar dynasty
- The sacred historical spring at the base was a vital stop for Silk Road caravans
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Taq-e Bostan (10)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What are the highlights in Taq-e Bostan?
The Sassanid rock reliefs in the grottoes, showing coronation scenes and hunting images.
Is the site located within the city?
Yes, Taq-e Bostan is located on the outskirts of Kermanshah and is easily reached by taxi.
Can Taq-e Bostan be visited in the evening?
Yes, the reliefs are illuminated in the evening, and the adjacent park is a popular meeting spot.
When is the best time for photos?
Late afternoon, when the sunlight hits the reliefs in the niches directly.
Are there restaurants nearby?
Yes, right at the entrance there are many restaurants serving the famous 'Dandeh Kebab'.
Taq-e Bostan: where is it located?
Taq-e Bostan is located in Iran.
Taq-e Bostan: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tir Andazeh, Qiyah, Farrokhshad.
Taq-e Bostan: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Taq-e Bostan: why is it worth visiting?
Taq-e Bostan, or "Arch of the Garden", is a remarkable ensemble of Sassanid-era rock reliefs carved directly into the rock walls of the Zagros Mountains, close to the city of Kermanshah.
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