Ziwiyeh Castle

Ziwiyeh Castle is a stone fortress built on a hilltop in Saqqez County at an elevation of 1,835 meters (6,020 feet) with three distinct levels. The structure features 21 stone stairs connecting the levels and adobe walls throughout the complex.

The fortress served as the capital of the Mannaean kingdom during the 9th century BC before later becoming a residence for Median and Scythian peoples. These successive occupants left their mark on this strategically important location.

The residential chambers on the second level display painted walls in blue, cream, black, and brick red, showing how people decorated their living spaces in ancient times. These colors reveal the artistic tastes and daily life of those who inhabited the fortress.

The site sits roughly 55 kilometers east of Saqqez city, accessible by a road that passes through hilly terrain. The fortress benefited from a sophisticated water piping system that drew from mountain springs, showing how residents managed their water supply.

Archaeological digs at the site uncovered the Ziwiye treasure, including a gold necklace decorated with engravings of mythical animals. These precious artifacts are now displayed in museums across the world.