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Bishāpūr
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Bishāpūr

ancient city, Iran
Also known as: Shāhpūr
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Bishāpūr was an ancient city in Iran, founded by the Sāsānian dynasty. It was established by Ardashīr I's son, Shāpūr I, around AD 241. Unlike other Sāsānian cities with circular plans, Bishāpūr adopted a "grid" layout, popular in Greek cities at the time.1

Shāpūr I, a powerful Persian king, used captives from his Roman campaigns to build Bishāpūr. These captives, skilled in technical arts, also helped construct the Band-e Qeyṣar dam. The city is known for its Sāsānid bas-reliefs and a statue of Shāpūr I located in a nearby cave. These rock reliefs, common throughout the empire, often depicted royal investitures and triumphs, showcasing a blend of Iranian and Western artistic influences.231

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
3 Britannica Sources
  1. Shāpūr I
  2. Kāzerūn
  3. Iranian art and architecture - Sāsānian period

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