Zendan-i Sulaiman Tower (likely 6th century BCE)

 

Zendan-i Sulaiman Tower (likely 6th century BCE)

 

The Zendan-i Sulaiman "Prison of Solomon" is the local name of the Zendan-i Sulaiman Tower seen in these images. As it appears to be unfinished, its purpose is not known, though various interpretations have been put forth--it may be a tomb, a fire temple, a treasury, or none of the above.

An interesting clue to how the structure likely would have looked when completed may be found at Naqsh-i-Rostam, a cliffside to the north of Persepolis. Standing in front of the cliffside (into which tombs were dug) is the Kabah-i Zardusht, a square tower about 12.50 meters high and 7.32 meters wide. The tower is solid except for a small room on the upper portion which faces the cliff.