Falak-ol-Aflak Castle is a monumental fortress perched atop a strategic hill in the heart of Khorramabad, Lorestan Province, Iran. Dating back nearly 2,000 years to the Sasanian Empire, it stands as an iconic symbol of the city. The castle’s 12 towers (eight remaining today) encircle the summit, creating an awe-inspiring panorama. Inside, a museum preserves the rich cultural heritage of Lorestan, showcasing local arts, traditions, and the nomadic lifestyle of the past.
Built during the Sassanid era (224–651 CE), Falak-ol-Aflak Castle originally functioned as a government center and fortified refuge in times of war. Over centuries, it remained a prominent landmark of Khorramabad. Since 1968, the castle has hosted an anthropology museum, safeguarding artifacts and providing insight into the region’s historical, social, and cultural life.
Falak-ol-Aflak Castle spans approximately 5,300 square meters and features four expansive halls, multiple interconnected rooms, and defensive courtyards. Constructed using mud bricks, stone, wood, and mortar, the fortress incorporates ingenious design solutions:
A 40-meter-deep well within the first courtyard
Elevated foundations and ventilation for drying in Khorramabad’s humid climate
A dehumidifier system with canals exceeding one meter in height
Strategically located near the Khorramabad River, the castle benefits from natural defensive advantages and environmental adaptation.
The anthropology museum inside Falak-ol-Aflak Castle displays traditional clothing, tools, and historical documents, providing an immersive experience into the culture of Lorestan. The fortress itself exemplifies the fusion of architectural innovation with cultural preservation, making it a vital heritage site.
Falak-ol-Aflak Castle is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., offering visitors an enriching journey into the Sassanid era and the rich legacy of Khorramabad’s people.
For more information about Falak-ol-Aflak Castle, you can visit Wikipedia, the official UNESCO document, and the IRNA news article.
