Ganjnameh
Nestled near Hamadan, Ganjnameh graces the Alvand mountain’s hillside with its precious cuneiform rock carvings, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Historical Significance
Dating back to the era of Xerxes, the king of the Achaemenid dynasty (466 – 486 BC), these invaluable historical artifacts once adorned a pivotal road leading from Hegmataneh hill to Babel. They served as a visual treat for travelers and soldiers passing by.
Description
Ganjnameh, meaning “Treasure Book” in translation, is a prominent tourist attraction in Hamadan. It boasts cuneiform rock carvings and sits just 8 kilometers from the city center, serving as the gateway to awe-inspiring hikes up Alvand mountain.
These carvings, found on the path from Hegmataneh Hill (the Achaemenian summer capital) to Babel, encapsulate two significant aspirations. They are inscribed in three languages (Old Persian, Elamite, and Neo-Babylonian) as offerings to the Zoroastrian god, Ahura Mazda. The left panel commemorates King Darius the Great, while the right pays tribute to Xerxes of the Achaemenid dynasty, celebrating his formidable rule. Beyond their religious purpose, these texts shed light on the Achaemenids’ dignity, kings’ thoughts, and beliefs, making them vital historical and cultural documents that illuminate ancient times and Achaemenid history.
Carved into a towering granite rock, these carvings measure 2 meters in height and 3 meters in width. Facing eastward, they benefit from adjacent protective holes, safeguarding them from the elements.
Besides the captivating Alvand mountain, standing tall at 3580 meters, and the surrounding natural wonders, Ganjnameh offers an additional marvel – a 9-meter-high waterfall adjacent to the inscriptions. In summer, it attracts crowds, while in winter, it becomes a playground for ice-climbing enthusiasts. Spring and summer paint the landscape with vibrant flowers, while autumn transforms it into a mesmerizing tapestry. Winter blankets the waterfall in ice, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
To enhance the Ganjnameh experience, numerous facilities are available, including restaurants and the Aquarium Cave.
Visiting Hours
Explorers and history enthusiasts can visit Ganjnameh in Hamadan from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. during spring and summer, and from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in winter and autumn.
