SAEDNEWS: Chogha Zanbil, the ancient ziggurat of Shushtar, predates the Egyptian pyramids and stands as a masterpiece of the Elamite civilization. With its extraordinary architecture and advanced water system, this temple is a symbol of ancient Iran’s rich culture—yet it remains largely in the shadows of global fame.
According to the History and Culture Service of Saed News, the Chogha Zanbil Temple, located in Khuzestan Province in southwestern Iran, is considered one of the most prominent and well-preserved examples of ziggurat architecture in the world. This massive structure, built around 1250 BCE by Untash-Napirisha, the Elamite king, as the religious center of the city of Dur-Untash, holds immense significance not only architecturally but also historically and culturally. The name "Chogha Zanbil" in the local language means "basket mound," referring to its mound-like shape before archaeological excavations.
The unique architecture of the Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat is one of its most striking features. The structure was originally built with five terraces and reached a height of about 52 meters, of which approximately 25 meters remain today. The base of this square ziggurat measures 105 by 105 meters, and its primary materials are sun-dried mud bricks and baked bricks. The exterior walls are adorned with thousands of inscribed bricks in Elamite and Akkadian cuneiform, detailing the king’s name, construction purposes, and temples dedicated to various gods. These inscriptions provide researchers with valuable insights into the Elamite civilization and its religious beliefs.
The Chogha Zanbil complex, in addition to the main ziggurat, includes the remains of smaller temples, palaces, royal tombs, and a sophisticated water management system, demonstrating the high level of knowledge and skill of Elamite engineers at the time. Surrounding the ziggurat were three concentric walls that separated the religious city of Dur-Untash from its surroundings. The discovery of this ancient site in the early 20th century opened a new window into the understanding of Elamite civilization and highlighted its importance in the history of ancient Mesopotamia.
Today, Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat, recognized as the first Iranian historical site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979, is one of Iran’s most important tourist attractions, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world each year. This magnificent structure stands as a testament to the grandeur and glory of Elamite civilization and its prominent role in human history. Efforts to preserve and restore this invaluable site ensure that this cultural heritage endures for future generations.
