Towards an Archaeological Appraisal of the Central Zagros in the Achaemenid Period

Abstract Located in the great satrapy of Media, during the Achaemenid period central Zagros was a crucial region throughout this era in western Iran, but archaeologically it has not so far been analyzed because of lacking material evidence. However, a putative reconstruction may be presented on the basis of current documentation. On this ground and as historical geography interpretations suggest, the central, southern and eastern parts of this region were more important, while the western and northern parts are still waiting for further explorations. Ecbatana, Nush-i Jan and Godin formed most significant centers in the eastern part, but the present paper argues that it was Bisotun in the central part that echoed Achaemenid power on various administrative, economic, military and ceremonial levels.