Takht-e Soleyman

Takht-e Soleyman, also known as Azar Goshnasp Fire Temple, literally “the Fire of the Warriors”, is an archaeological site in West Azarbaijan, Iran. In the middle of the road between Urmia and Hamedan, very close to Takab city and 400 km west of Tehran.

It is the holiest shrine of Zoroastrianism and an outstanding ensemble of royal architecture. It was founded in the 6th century and integrated with Sasanian’s palatial architecture within a composition.

The site officially comprises one location, but there are 6 sub-locations such as Takht-e Soleyman with its fire temple and Anahita temple, the small hill Zendan-e Suleiman (‘Solomon’s prison’), a mountain to the east that served as a quarry for the construction of the site, the archaeological mound Tepe Majid and Belqeis Mountain with a citadel.

Once you enter Takht-e Soleyman, you see the beautiful scenery of a lake in front of you. This lake is actually a boiling and calcareous spring that is thousands of years old. The construction and operation of the Throne of Solomon have been completely dependent on the existence of this spring and its impact can be clearly seen in this complex. Due to its calcareous nature, the water of this spring is not suitable for human or animal consumption and causes digestive problems.

The beginning of spring to the beginning of summer is a good time to visit this site registered by UNESCO. There are many green lands and gardens around Takht-e Soleyman and you can enjoy these views.

How to go there: The best route is Qazvin highway to Zanjan, then go to Bijar and then go to Takab. After that, follow the signpost to the village of Nosratabad and Takht-e Soleyman.