When you visit Iran, you’ll quickly notice how proud Iranians are of their rich history and poetic heritage. The ruins of Persepolis are a prime example of this pride and are a must-see for any visitor.

While Shiraz, just 56 km (35 miles) away, is famous for being the birthplace of the 14th century beloved poet Hafez, Persepolis offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient past from the 6th century BC.

The Ruins of Persepolis in Iran are some of the most impressive and well-preserved ancient sites in the world, largely due to the fact that they were "lost" for centuries, buried under sand and forgotten by history.

Unlike other ancient cities, Persepolis disappeared from the records of other civilizations.

But today, you can walk among the ruins and witness the grandeur that once defined the Persian Empire.

What and where are The Ruins of Persepolis?
Highlights of Persepolis
Visiting Persepolis
Daytrip from Persepolis

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So, what and where are The Ruins of Persepolis?

Persepolis is located near modern-day Marvdasht in Fars Province and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The name Persepolis comes from Greek, meaning "City of Persia," but the ancient Persians called it Parsa. Today it’s referred to as Takht-e Jamshid in Farsi, or "Throne of Jamshid."

According to legend, Jamshid was the mythical first ruler of Iran.

Construction of Persepolis

Persepolis was built on a massive terrace that was part man-made, part carved from the mountain, making it a marvel of ancient urban planning. 

Construction began in 515 BC under Darius the Great, and it remained the capital of the Achaemenid Empire for 150 years. The site even includes the Tomb of Cyrus the Great (in the nearby Pasargadae), who ruled before Darius, and later kings such as Xerxes and Artaxerxes continued to expand the city.

A Halt to Persepolis

Persepolis’s history came to an abrupt halt in 330 BC when it was looted and burned by Alexander the Great’s army.

Afterwards, the city was abandoned and largely forgotten until it was rediscovered by European explorers in the 17th century.

Excavations in the 1930s revealed remarkably intact ruins, and the site has been a window into the ancient world ever since.

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Highlights of Persepolis

Here are some of the key highlights to explore at the Persepolis Ruins complex.

Apadana Staircase

The Apadana Staircase, with its 110 shallow steps, is one of the most well-preserved features of Persepolis.

Designed so that nobles in long robes could ascend without tripping, the staircase is flanked by intricate carvings depicting Persian nobles, imperial guards, and the famous "Immortals."

Gate of All Nations


Guarded by lamassus—mythical creatures with bull bodies and human heads—this gate was built by Xerxes I to symbolize the unity of the Persian Empire’s many nations.

The Gate of All Nations also bears inscriptions in three languages: Old Persian, Neo-Babylonian, and Elamite.

Throne Hall (Hundred-Column Palace)


The Throne Hall was the second-largest structure in Persepolis and one of the main reception areas.

It later became a storage room for the empire’s immense treasure, but today, its broken columns are a testament to its former grandeur.

Private Palaces and the Royal Courtyard


The southwestern area of Persepolis holds private palaces, including Tachara Palace, where you can still see detailed reliefs on the doorjambs. This area opens up to the Royal Courtyard, offering a glimpse of what life might have been like for Persian royalty.

Tomb of Artaxerxes II

Perched on a hill overlooking Persepolis, the rock-cut tombs of Artaxerxes II and III provide a breathtaking view of the complex below.

The Treasury

Though looted by Alexander the Great, the ruins of the Treasury still give an idea of the immense wealth once held by the Persian Empire. All that remains are the footprints of more than 300 columns that once supported the structure.

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Visiting Persepolis Iran

If you’re in Shiraz, visiting Persepolis is an absolute must!

However, public transport options to Persepolis, Pasargadae, and Naqsh-e-Rustam are quite limited, making it essential to plan your trip carefully.

The easiest way to explore Persepolis is by arranging your own transport. Most hotels in Shiraz can organize guided tours, which are of great value and include insightful information about the site’s history.

If you’re travelling with a small group—say, four people—hiring a private taxi can be a more affordable and flexible option.

You’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, making the experience even more enjoyable.

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Day Trip from Persepolis: Should You Visit Pasargadae and Naqsh-e Rustam?

If you’re planning a day trip to Persepolis, you’ll need to decide whether to include Naqsh-e Rustam and Pasargadae in your itinerary.

Here’s what to consider:

Naqsh-e Rustam

Naqsh-e Rustam, or simply known as the Necropolis, is located very close to Persepolis and is definitely worth a visit.

This ancient necropolis features stunning rock carvings and magnificent tombs that are truly a sight to behold. Make sure your tour or taxi day trip includes a stop here.

You won’t want to miss it.

Pasargadae

Pasargadae, on the other hand, is about an hour further from Persepolis, making it a much longer trip.

While it holds historical significance as the resting place of Cyrus the Great, it’s a more minimal site with a single tomb in a desert landscape.

Unless you’re a passionate history enthusiast, Pasargadae may not feel worth the extra travel time.

Plan your trip based on your interests, but if time and energy are limited, Naqsh-e Rustam is the clear must-see alongside Persepolis.

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Koryo Tours
Iran Travel Guide