Taq-e Bostan

'Arch of stone')[1] is a site with a series of large rock reliefs from the era of the Sassanid Empire of Persia (Iran), carved around the 4th century CE.

The site has been turned into an archaeological park and a series of late Sassanian and Islamic column capitals have been brought together (some found at Taq Bostan, others at Mount Behistun and Kermanshah).

The carvings, some of the finest and best-preserved examples of Persian sculpture under the Sassanids, include representations of the investitures of Ardashir II (379–383) and Shapur III (383–388).

Like other Sassanid symbols, Taq-e Bostan, and its relief patterns accentuate power, religious tendencies, glory, honor, the vastness of the court, game and fighting spirit, festivity, joy, and rejoicing.

Sassanid kings chose a beautiful setting for their rock reliefs along a historic Silk Road caravan route waypoint and campground.

A Taq Bostan carving depicts women playing changs (Persian harps) while the king is hunting.
The Coronation of Ardashir II . Ardashir II appears in the middle, receiving the diadem from Shapur II on the right, with Mithra standing to the left. The fallen enemy is most likely the Roman emperor Julian .
Speculative Historical reenactment of a Sassanid cataphract , complete with a full set of scale armour for the horse. The rider is covered by extensive mail armour , (photographed in Oxford , U.K.)
Relief of a victorious Khosrow II mounted on his favorite horse, Shabdiz; Taq-i Bostan
Scene of boar hunting Khusrow II . The recurve bow used by the king is considered Hunnish . [ 2 ]
An old photo taken at Taq-e Bostan during late Qajar period