Taq-e Bostan

Taq-e Bostan is one of the most remarkable attractions in Kermanshah and one of the significant rock reliefs from the Sassanian era. This collection of carvings is located on the mountainside next to a lake known as Taq-e Bostan Lake. In the past, this site, with its pleasant climate and beautiful nature, served as a recreational and hunting ground for the Sassanian kings, as evidenced by the carved reliefs. Taq-e Bostan holds great artistic and historical importance for historians and archaeologists, showcasing the grandeur and magnificence of ancient Persian art.

Taq-e Bostan depicts several historical events of the Sassanian period, particularly the coronation ceremonies of the Sassanian kings such as Ardashir II, Shapur II, Shapur III, and Khosrow Parviz. Additionally, there are stone inscriptions in the Pahlavi script. The most prominent feature in Taq-e Bostan is the large arch or the Great Iwan, which houses the rock relief of the coronation of Khosrow Parviz. This Iwan is 7 meters wide and 11 meters high.

At the entrance of the arch, there are carvings of winged angels, the tree of life, scenes of boar hunting, bird and fish hunting in the marsh, and depictions of elephants, horses, and boats. The boar hunting scene is considered a masterpiece of rock carving due to its dynamic movement and artistic style, closely resembling mural painting in its artistic approach.