Fire Features at Akchakhan-kala and Tash-k’irman-tepe

Abstract

Fire is an intrinsic aspect of Zoroastrian ritual and religious traditions. Akchakhan-kala can be conclusively linked with pre-Sasanian Zoroastrian practice through evidence from the recent discovery of murals depicting Avestan deities. Close similarities in apparently ritual features suggest that Tash-k’irman-tepe can also be linked to such traditions. Both sites also have a rich array of fire features which can be linked to respect for, and veneration of, fire in a variety of forms. This paper discusses these features, how they might fit into the wider picture of pre-Sasanian Zoroastrian development, and their significance for a deeper understanding of the history of Ancient Chorasmia.