The most famous communication method of the ancient Persians was the Royal Road, a vast network of roads and relay stations that stretched from Susa in western Iran to Sardis in western Turkey. The Royal Road was used to transmit messages and orders throughout the empire, and it also facilitated trade and travel. The road was divided into sections, each with its own relay station. Couriers would ride from station to station, delivering messages and changing horses. This system allowed for rapid communication, and it was said that a message could travel the entire length of the Royal Road in just a few days.
烽火台
Another communication method used by the ancient Persians was the use of watchtowers, or烽火台. These towers were located at strategic points along the Royal Road and throughout the empire. When a message needed to be sent, a fire would be lit on top of the tower. This signal could be seen from the next tower, and so the message could be relayed across the empire in a matter of minutes.
Royal Messengers
In addition to the Royal Road and the烽火台, the ancient Persians also used royal messengers to communicate. These messengers were trusted individuals who were sent to deliver messages that required special care or secrecy. Royal messengers were often given a special badge or token of authority, which they would present to the person they were delivering the message to.
Postal System
The ancient Persians also developed a postal system, which was used to send messages and packages throughout the empire. The postal system was open to both government officials and private individuals. Letters were written on papyrus or parchment, and they were sealed with wax. The letters were then placed in bags and transported by couriers. The postal system was efficient and reliable, and it helped to facilitate communication between different parts of the empire.