The Dokkan Davood Catacomb is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Sarpol-e Zahab, Kermanshah Province. Located at the beginning of Anzal Road, only about 100 meters from the Kermanshah–Sarpol-e Zahab highway, this rock-cut tomb is an important example of ancient Iranian funerary architecture. Due to its cultural value, it has been officially inscribed on Iran’s list of national monuments.
There are different theories regarding the age and ownership of this catacomb. Local tradition associates it with the Median era, considering it the tomb of Astyages, the last king of the Medes, who was defeated by Cyrus the Great. However, more recent research suggests that the structure dates back to the Achaemenid period and may have remained in use during the Seleucid era.
Since the royal Achaemenid tombs are mainly located in Pasargadae and Persepolis, some historians believe this mausoleum might have belonged to Zahhak, a mythical ruler of Iran and maternal grandfather of Cyrus, remembered in Persian legend for his tyranny. Despite these debates, Dokkan Davood is widely regarded as one of the rare examples of rock-cut tombs outside the Persian heartlands of Fars.
The façade of the Dokkan Davood catacomb includes a portico measuring 6.9 meters long at the front and 3.27 meters deep. The structure stands 6.2 meters high and nearly 9.5 meters wide. The entrance is framed by two columns, of which only the base and capital remain today.
Behind the portico, a doorway measuring 1 x 1.5 meters leads to a chamber approximately 2.83 x 2.31 x 2.81 meters in size. Inside, five niches are carved into the walls, likely used for placing offerings to the deceased. The room’s ceiling has a crescent-shaped vault, contrasting with the flat roof of the porch. In one corner, an oval-shaped grave 70 cm deep can be found, thought to be the burial space itself.
The site is open at all times of the day, but due to the lack of proper lighting, it is not recommended to visit at night. Travelers interested in archaeology and ancient Iranian history will find Dokkan Davood a fascinating stop when exploring Kermanshah Province.
For further information about Dokkan Davood Catacomb, you can explore the detailed entry in the Encyclopaedia Iranica and a comprehensive article published by the Circle of Ancient Iranian Studies (SAIS-SOAS), available here.
