What buildings were included in the capital city of Pasargadae?

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The capital city of Pasargadae, established by Cyrus the Great, featured a layout that reflected the Persians' nomadic heritage, with principal buildings standing in isolation across a wide area rather than being enclosed by a single wall.12

Key structures identified at the site include:

  • The Citadel: Located at the northern end, it features a massive stone platform and a mud-brick structure, potentially a treasury.12
  • Royal Buildings: Situated within an extensive walled park with irrigated gardens, these include two spacious palaces adorned with sculptures and trilingual inscriptions.12
  • Gatehouse: A building designed as the sole entrance to the park, notable for a unique four-winged guardian figure.12
  • Tower: A tall, square structure similar to the Ka'beh-ye Zardusht at Naqsh-e Rostam.12
  • Tomb of Cyrus: An iconic, well-preserved gabled stone monument resting on a stepped plinth.123
  • Sacred Precinct: Located in the northwest, this area contains a large terraced mound and a pair of freestanding fire altars.12