The city of Susa in Iran is one of the oldest cities in the world, it was founded no later than 4200 BC. The first settlement in its place appeared 3,000 years earlier; during the study scientists have discovered prehistoric rock carvings and pottery indicating high culture of the early settlers. In the 5th century BC, the city was the capital of Šušan; rulers of the ancient state, and later the Persian kings chose the rich city to live in.
Even in ancient times they erected palaces in the city, which can be assess by the extent of preserved ruins in the historic center. The event that changed the history of the prosperous city happened in the 7th century BC. During the legendary Battle of Susa, won by the King Ashurbanipal, the city was completely burned and looted. Those tragic events didn’t prevent the rapid recovery of the city. Today it’s an archaeological site with a unique combination of monuments of different eras.
Large-scale studies of the city began in the 19th century; the first archaeologists arrived there from France. Their works helped Susa to owe its high status as one of the oldest cities in the world. Despite the fact that the archaeological area of the city was seriously injured by treasure-hunters and destructive economic activities of local authorities, it’s still very interesting and attractive for tourists.
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Gaziantep, Turkey
Balkh, Afghanistan
Useful staff nearby
Fuel station: 'Heydari Gas Station' in 1.27 km
Supermarket: 'Susa Vegetable Market' in 0.43 km
Railway station: 'Susa Train Station' in 4.26 km
Nearest airports:
» Kuwait Airport KWI - in 329 km