Eshkaft-e Salman

Eshkaft-e Salman is a natural limestone cave in Izeh, Iran, featuring two openings and four relief carvings both inside and outside its formation. These stone reliefs depict royal scenes and religious ceremonies from ancient times.

The cave was carved between the 12th and 7th centuries BC during the Elamite period of ancient Iran. The stone carvings provide evidence of royal practices and religious beliefs that defined this civilization.

The carved figures display formal dress, elaborate hairstyles, and ceremonial gestures that show how people of different ranks lived in ancient Elamite society.

The site is accessible throughout the year, though autumn and winter provide cooler temperatures for comfortable exploration. Wear sturdy shoes since the ground inside is uneven and requires careful footing.

A natural spring flows from the deepest chamber of the cave, and seasonal rains create waterfalls that cascade down the cliff face at the entrance. These shifting water features give the site a constantly changing character.