Minar of Firuzabad, Archaeological watchtower in Firuzabad County, Iran
The Minar of Firuzabad is a stone tower built with stone and mortar that stands in the ruins of the ancient city of Gor. The remaining core shows the basic construction methods of the Sasanian period, though its original exterior, staircase, and dome have been lost over time.
The tower was built in the 3rd century under Ardashir I and served as a central element in the circular layout of the Sasanian city of Gor. Its construction reflects the urban planning ambitions of the early Sasanian period.
The structure served both water management and religious purposes, possibly connected to the worship of Anahita, the water deity. Visitors can observe how practical and spiritual functions were combined in a single building.
The tower is best explored by walking around its exterior to observe the spiral design features from different angles. The site is exposed to sun and wind, so plan accordingly and watch for uneven ground.
The tower features an anticlockwise spiral design that later influenced Islamic architecture in places like Samarra and Cairo. This architectural feature shows how early Sasanian innovations shaped building styles across centuries.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
