Tang-e Chogan Reliefs, Bishapur

🕰️When was it built?

The reliefs date from the Sasanian era and show four kings: Shapur I, Bahram I, Bahram II and Bahram IV. The exact date each one was carved is not known.

🏛️What was it built for?

The Sasanian kings played chogan, the Persian game of polo, here. On the gorge walls they also carved scenes of their victories and their investiture, as they had done at Naqsh-e Rostam.

👀What you will see

• The first relief of Shapur I: Shapur is on horseback, a Roman emperor lies under his horse's hooves, another kneels before him, and Valerian's hand is in Shapur's.
• The relief of Bahram II showing his victory over desert Arabs, who have brought him horses and camels.
• The relief of Bahram I receiving the ring of kingship from Ahura Mazda.
• The fourth relief: the victory of Bahram IV, or perhaps Shapur II, over rebels.
• The Shapur Cave and the stone statue of Shapur, at the far end of the gorge.

💡Something interesting

In the first relief of Shapur, 115 people are carved: Iranian horsemen in five rows behind the king, and Romans in five rows in front of him, bringing gifts. Tang-e Chogan is on the World Heritage List, and its reliefs need restoration.

🎒Good to know before you go

• The reliefs are on the gorge walls under the open sky; wear comfortable shoes and bring water.