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Ancient Origins Tour IRAQ

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Achaemenids

The Achaemenid Empire, also known as the First Persian Empire, spanned vast territories across Western Asia and was one of the most influential and expansive empires of the ancient world.

In this section of our website, we invite you to discover the intriguing personalities and achievements of Achaemenid figures who left an indelible mark on history. From visionary kings and influential queens to skilled administrators and esteemed military commanders, these individuals embody the spirit and accomplishments of the Achaemenid civilization.

Journey back in time and meet Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. Cyrus' military prowess and diplomatic skills led to the establishment of an empire that stretched from the Mediterranean Sea to the Indus River. Known for his benevolent rule and policies of religious and cultural tolerance, Cyrus laid the foundations of an enduring and influential empire.

Explore the life of Darius the Great, one of the most notable rulers of the Achaemenid Empire. Darius implemented administrative reforms, developed an efficient bureaucracy, and undertook ambitious construction projects, including the construction of the magnificent city of Persepolis. His reign marked a period of stability and cultural flourishing within the empire.

Delve into the accomplishments of Queen Atossa, a prominent figure in Achaemenid history. As the wife of Darius and mother of Xerxes, Atossa wielded significant influence and played a pivotal role in shaping royal succession. She was also known for her involvement in religious and political matters, leaving an enduring legacy as a powerful queen.

Dig into the details in the following articles.

Shahnameh (Book of Kings) Abu'l Qasim Firdausi (935–1020).

The Early Rulers of Persia, Part II: The Kayanian Dynasty

( Read Part I ) According to Persian epic tradition, the Kayanians were the second dynasty to rule the land which is known today as Iran. The Kayanians succeeded the Pishdadians, whose dynasty ended...
Xerxes

Xerxes The Great: The Powerful Persian King Whose Death Destroyed an Empire

Xerxes I, also known as Xerxes the Great, was a 5th century Achaemenid king of the Persian empire. He is best known for leading the massive invasion of Greece, marked by the battles of Thermopylae,...
The Persian Empire used a satrapal system for local rulers. Source: Konstantin / Adobe Stock

Satraps of the Persian Empire – Rebellious Protectors of the Realm

The Achaemenid Empire was an ancient empire whose heartland was the region of Persis , in the southwestern part of modern-day Iran. At its greatest extent, the Achaemenids ruled over an empire that...
Cyrus the Great. Source: armin dara / CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

Cyrus the Great – Conqueror or Uber Human Rights Activist?

Cyrus II of Persia (more commonly known as Cyrus the Great and called Cyrus the Elder by the ancient Greeks) was the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. Although there are various ancient sources for...
Royal Bonds: How the Mother, Wife, and Daughter of Darius III Became Family of Alexander the Great

Royal Bonds: How the Mother, Wife, and Daughter of Darius III Became Family of Alexander the Great

Alexander the Great abruptly ended the reign of Darius III, and with it he saw the demise of the Achaemenid kings. However, while conquering new lands Alexander gained not only territory, but also...
The Secret Strategic Plans of Darius the Great

The Secret Strategic Plans of Darius the Great

To the north of the Persian Empire, around both sides of Caucasus Mountain, various Scythian (Palaeo-Slavian / Staroslavianskje) tribes lived. They were nomadic, i.e. not yet permanently settled in...
The Faravahar: The Ancient Zoroastrian Symbol of Iran

The Faravahar: The Ancient Zoroastrian Symbol of Iran

The Faravahar is arguably the best-known symbol of the Persian Zoroastrian faith. This symbol consists of a winged disc with a man emerging from it. The man is shown holding a ring. Whilst the symbol...
Behistun Inscription, The Rosetta Stone of Persia

Behistun Inscription, The Rosetta Stone of Persia

The Behistun Inscription is an engraving located on the cliff of Mount Behistun (said to have had the meaning of ‘place where the gods dwell’ in antiquity). This inscription was written in three...
Gate of all nations.

The Early Rulers of Persia, Part I: The Pishdadian Dynasty

( Read Part II ) It is arguable that the most famous empire based in Persia was that of the Achaemenids. This was one of the greatest empires in the ancient world, and is best known in the Western...