In the rugged landscape of eastern Turkey, an ancient marvel is carved into the slopes of Van Castle. This colossal inscription, dating back to the reign of King Xerxes I of Persia (516-465 BC), measures 49 feet in width and reaches heights of 82 feet. Written in Old Persian, Elamite, and Akkadian, it narrates the story of an ambitious ruler and his grand vision for his empire.
The inscription reveals Xerxes’ ambitious project: a vast canal system designed to enhance agriculture and improve connectivity throughout the Persian Empire. This monumental undertaking showcases the advanced engineering capabilities of the ancient Persians and offers insights into the social and political dynamics of Mesopotamia during that era.
Van Castle, built between 840 and 825 BC by Sarduri, son of Lutipri, stands as a symbol of power and control. The trilingual inscription of Xerxes, positioned 20 meters above ground, was carved into a niche prepared by his father, King Darius, declaring Xerxes’ divine right to rule.
The discovery and decipherment of this inscription by Eugène Burnouf in 1836 marked a significant milestone in understanding ancient Persian language and culture. Today, Van Castle and its inscriptions serve as silent witnesses to the ambitions and enduring legacy of long-gone civilizations.
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