Qal'eh Dokhtar

The stone fortress stands on a mountain slope near the Firouzabad-Kavar road, featuring three distinct levels connected by a spiral staircase.

Ardashir I constructed this defensive stronghold in 209 AD during the establishment of the Sassanid Empire, marking a new era in Persian architecture.

The fortress name references the goddess Anahita and includes an early example of an Iranian chartaq, a square structure with four arches supporting a dome.

The structure has decreased four meters in height over the last century due to erosion, requiring careful monitoring to prevent further deterioration.

The fortress contains a rectangular hall supported by quarter circle squinches, demonstrating advanced engineering methods from the third century.

Location: Firuzabad County

Part of: Sassanid Archaeological Landscape of Fars Region

GPS coordinates: 28.92100,52.53014

Latest update: March 4, 2025 02:12