ESTAKHR Meaning and
Definition
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Estakhr is a noun that refers to an ancient city or archaeological site located in Iran. The term originates from the Persian language, where "esta" means brick and "khr" signifies a place or a building. Translated literally, it means "a place of bricks". Estakhr usually denotes an urban settlement that existed during the pre-Islamic era.
Historically, estakhr was considered one of the major cities of the Persian Empire, renowned for its cultural and economic significance. These cities typically featured well-developed infrastructures, advanced architectural structures made primarily of bricks, and were often centers of trade, commerce, and governance.
Today, the term "estakhr" is predominantly used to identify ancient ruins and archaeological remains that serve as a testament to the rich historical and cultural heritage of ancient Persia. These historical sites often include the remnants of ancient buildings, palaces, temples, tombs, and other architectural structures. The ruins bear witness to the past grandeur and architectural prowess of the Persian civilization, providing a valuable insight into the socio-cultural and political aspects of the ancient world.
Estakhr is not only valued for its historical importance but also appreciated for its contribution to the fields of archaeology and history. Scholars, researchers, and tourists visit estakhr to explore and study these ancient ruins, furthering our understanding of the ancient Persian civilization. It serves as a living testament to the ingenuity and magnificence of the people who once inhabited these cities.
Etymology of ESTAKHR
The word "estakhr" has its roots in Persian. The term "estakhr" (استخر) is derived from the combination of two Persian words: "est" (است), meaning "is" or "exists", and "akhr" (اخر), meaning "extreme" or "ultimate".
In Persian, "estakhr" refers to an ancient concept that originally denoted fortified cities or strongholds built on elevated grounds, usually found in or near the capital of an empire. These cities served as military strongholds or administrative centers.
Over time, the term "estakhr" has come to be associated with a type of architectural structure in ancient Persia, often interpreted as a "palace". It typically referred to the grand buildings occupied by kings, nobles, or high-ranking officials within these fortified cities.
