Layout & Architectural Features of Persepolis

In investigating the site of Persepolis it is important to consider layout of the site and its characteristic architectural features, the significant archaeological finds and the purpose of the site. Source C contains a plan of the site. The rest of this site contains images and information about the main structures.

Source C: A Plan of Persepolis

Gate of All Nations

This was the formal entrance to Persepolis, reached by an imposing double staircase near the north-west corner of the site. The gateway was flanked by two colossal guardian figures in the shape of human-headed bulls.

Apadana

This 60-square-metre audience hall had 36 columns holding up a 25-metre-high roof. It could accomodate 10 000 people. Its north and east stairs feature reliefs of guards, dignitaries and subjects bringing gifts to the king.

Palace of Darius(Tachara)

This building measures 40 by 30 metres, and had 12 columns. Its 5 doors and 16 windows are all inscribed with Darius' name. The window frames are notbale for their Egyptian-style lintels, known as cavetto cornices.

Palace of Xerxes(Hadish)

A square hall with 36 columns and two double, sculpture-decorated staircases. The doorjambs have images of the king entering the palace.

'Harem'

A collection of buildings in the south-eastern part of the site. The main wing contained two rows of six apartments. Each one consisted with one or two smaller rooms. The west wing had another 16 apartments. There is no evidence that it housed the king's concubines as the name suggests.

Tripylon (Triple Gate)

Located between the Apadana and the Hall of a Hundred Columns, it consists of a central room and three decorated gates.

Hall of a Hundred columns (Throne hall)

This 70-square-metre hall had 10 rows of 14-metre-high columns. It features reliefs of throne scenes and the king in combat with lion monsters.

Treasury

At 120 by 60 metres, this was a huge structure. A large cache of clay tablets was discovered here, which have supplied much information about the Achaemenid Empire.

Task 8: Research Task

Visit the following website (and other sources)to gain a deeper understanding on the features/buildings of Persepolis. Complete the table in your work books (on page 23), looking at each component of the city of Persepolis, with a focus on each components:

architectural features
role in everyday life
significance in Persepolis

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