TEHRAN – A new round of archaeological excavation has recently commenced at the UNESCO-registered Pasargadae, southern Iran.

It is a follow-up project which aims to reveal original map and architecture of a ruined “stone tower” along with its surroundings in detail, Mehr reported.

The tower closely resembles Ka’ba-ye Zartosht, an Achaemenes-era (550-330 BC) cube-shaped counterpart standing in Naqsh-e Rustam compound near Persepolis, said archaeologist Ali Mousavi who heads the excavation.

The two may probably have similar practical usage, however, their original purposes are still uncovered, Mousavi added. 

Situated in about 50km north of Persepolis, Pasargadae was the first capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Its palaces, gardens and the mausoleum of Cyrus the Great are outstanding examples of the first phase of royal Achaemenid art and architecture and exceptional testimonies of Persian civilization.

PHOTO: Remnants of an Achaemenid-era “stone tower” in Pasargadae

AFM/MQ/MG