Some columns towered up to 20 meters high. Their capitals—designed like double-headed bulls, lions, or eagles—symbolized power and protection. The craftsmanship rivals that of ancient Greece and Egypt. Archaeological records reveal that workers at Persepolis were paid wages, received rations, and even had maternity benefits—an unusual practice for ancient times. Thousands of clay tablets discovered at the site, known as the Fortification Tablets, show detailed records of daily life and administrative systems.
They give us a rare and vivid glimpse into the Achaemenid world beyond its kings and palaces. In recent years, night tours of Persepolis have become popular. Under soft illumination, the columns and reliefs cast dramatic shadows across the terraces, giving the ruins a mystical aura. The silence of the desert adds to the atmosphere, allowing visitors to feel as though they’ve stepped back into antiquity. Shiraz locals often recommend the night visit as the most magical way to experience the site.
