Pasargadae is located 87 km (54 mi) northeast of Persepolis, in present Iran, and was the first capital of the Persian Empire. Built by Cyrus II of Persia, Pasargadae remained the capital until King Darius built a capital in Persepolis.

The archaeological site covers 1.6 square kilometres, and includes the mausoleum of Cyrus II, the fortress of Tall-e Takht , and a royal palace and gardens. The gardens provide the earliest known example of the Persian garden concept.

Pasargadae is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

See also: Persian architecture

External links

• UNESCO World Heritage Center
• Pasargadae, Iran Chamber Society