Tomb of Cyrus the Great

The Tomb of Cyrus the Great (c. 530 BC) at Pasargadae is the mausoleum of the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. The structure measures approximately 13.75 x 12.25 m and stands about 11 m high, consisting of a six-step stone platform topped by a gabled burial chamber. Built of white limestone blocks, the chamber once housed a gold sarcophagus, Cyrus's arms, jewelry, and a ceremonial cloak. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pasargadae, the tomb is considered the oldest base-isolated structure in the world, demonstrating early earthquake engineering.