Watching: Persepolis : Before It Burned

Overview

Persepolis—located in modern-day Iran —or Parsa, as the Persians called it , and step into its grand halls exactly as they were around 450 BC, right before its spectacular downfall. It’s not just about looking at buildings; we explore the massive artificial platform , the Gate of All Nations guarded by colossal stone bulls , and the magnificent Apadana audience hall at their absolute peak. We contrast that vibrant reality—where twenty-three different nations gathered during the Nowruz spring festival to share feasts and exchange tribute —with the scorched, silent ruins that remain today.