1. Pasargadae: Pasargadae was the first capital city of the Achaemenid Empire, founded by its founder, Cyrus the Great. It was located in the Persis region (present-day Fars Province, Iran). Pasargadae served as the ceremonial capital and was home to the tomb of Cyrus the Great.
2. Susa: Susa, located in the Elamite region (present-day Khuzestan Province, Iran), was another important capital city of the Achaemenid Empire. It was strategically positioned on the banks of the Choaspes River (known today as the Karun River) and served as the winter capital due to its warm climate. Susa was a major administrative centre and a hub for trade and cultural exchange.
3. Persepolis: Persepolis (Takht-e Jamshid) was the most renowned capital city of the Achaemenid Empire. Built in the 5th century BCE, Persepolis was located northeast of Shiraz in present-day Iran. It served as the ceremonial and administrative centre during the reign of Darius the Great and his successors. Persepolis is known for its magnificent palaces, monumental staircases, and elaborate reliefs depicting the diverse cultures of the empire.
4. Ecbatana (Hamedan): Ecbatana, located in the Median region (present-day Hamedan, Iran), was another significant capital city of the Achaemenid Empire. It served as the summer capital due to its cooler climate and held religious importance as a centre for Zoroastrian worship. Ecbatana was known for its imposing fortifications, beautiful palaces, and royal gardens.
5. Babylon: Babylon, the former capital of Babylonia, was briefly made a capital city of the Achaemenid Empire during the reign of Darius I. It was an important cultural and economic centre and remained influential in the empire despite not being a permanent capital.
Throughout the Achaemenid period, these capital cities served as centres of power, administration, and cultural development, reflecting the vast expanse and diverse nature of the empire. The remains and ruins of these ancient capitals continue to attract visitors and scholars interested in the rich history and legacy of the Achaemenid Empire.