A Sasanian Triumphal Arch in Bishapur

Abstract

Bishapur was an early Sasanian city established by Shapur I (240–270 CE), the second king of the dynasty (224–651 CE). Archaeological excavations, begun in the middle of the nineteenth century, revealed numerous structures in the city, but the functions attributed to them are in doubt. Among the Sasanian buildings discovered is an obscure—in terms of form and location—structure usually identified as a gate or summer house. Based on a survey of its construction and analysis of its location and surroundings, this article argues that it is not likely a city gate, fortification gate, or summer house. This research indicates two main Sasanian construction phases. The original structure shows precise axial correspondence with the passage to the palace zone. This fact and analysis of its original architectural form suggests that this building was in fact constructed as a triumphal arch.