Historical Capitals of the World

Qumis

Country: Iran

Region: Middle East

Period: ~ 3rd c.BCE

Location: 35.951056°N, 54.112806°E

Description

Hecatompylos, an ancient city of the Parthian Empire, was the capital of the Parthian Kingdom before the rise of Ctesiphon. Located in present-day Iran, it was an important center for trade, administration, and culture. The city's strategic position along trade routes helped it flourish as a significant political and economic hub in the ancient Near East.

Modern Remains

Today, the remains of Hecatompylos are located near Damghan, Iran. Archaeological excavations have uncovered remnants of fortifications, royal palaces, and urban infrastructure. While much of the city has been eroded by time, the ruins provide valuable insights into the Parthian Empire’s early history and its architectural achievements, with ongoing studies continuing to shed light on the city's role in ancient civilization.

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