Bazeh Hur; an archaeological treasure trove in Khorasan Razavi Province
An associate professor of archaeology at the University of Tehran stated that the archaeological site of Bazeh Hur in Khorasan Razavi Province represents a significant part of the cultural sequence in Greater Khorasan and requires restoration and organization to ensure its preservation for future generations. Meysam Labbaf-Khaniki noted that the fire temple at Bazeh Hur historical site dates back to the Sassanid period. It is situated on the summit of Kuh-e Dokhtar (Dokhtar Mountain). Constructed from high-quality bricks and plaster, the temple features a dome that rises about 12 meters high and remained active from the late Parthian era until the early Islamic period, ISNA wrote.
Architectural significance
The archaeology researcher continued by stating that, based on the excavations, the fire temple is the most significant one identified thus far in the eastern and northeastern regions of the Iranian Plateau. In the eastern section of the structure, a columned hall has also been uncovered, with its columns adorned with unique capitals and intricate stucco decorations.
Labbaf-Khaniki emphasized that the findings from the architectural complex, which include exquisite stucco work, wall paintings, ritual objects and equipment, Sassanid clay seals, and numerous fragments of Middle Persian inscriptions, underscore the high significance of the site among the inhabitants of Khorasan. Archaeological studies indicate that it is not the sole structure within the complex; associated buildings and facilities extend over an area of approximately half a hectare.
He stated that based on the findings and historical geography, a hypothesis has been proposed suggesting that the building may be one of the three main Sassanid fire temples known as “Azar Barzin Mehr,” which are mentioned in religious and geographical texts predating Islam. Although this hypothesis requires further investigation, its importance of as one of the most significant fire temples in Iran is undeniable.
Labbaf-Khaniki also pointed out that considering the historical and cultural significance of this site, its organization and protection could greatly contribute to the development of tourism and the local economy.
He mentioned that transforming the Robat Sefid village into a center for attracting tourists and utilizing the site as a hub for archaeological studies and the history of the region are among the benefits of preserving the temple. The presence of student camp facilities near the site provides the necessary infrastructure for establishing a base and deploying a guard, which would allow for the use of its spaces for research and educational purposes.
Findings from excavations
Referring to the age of the structure, estimated to be between 1,100 to 1,300 years old, he added that during archaeological excavations at the ancient site, very important findings have emerged that significantly enhance understandings of Sassanid art and architecture. One of the most notable discoveries is the remnants of a fire altar with a unique structure. It is designed as a shallow depression, featuring bases positioned at its corners and columns upon which the altar was placed. The discovered pieces indicate that the altar bears similarities to Sassanid altars depicted on the coins of Ardashir.
He emphasized that one of the most astonishing aspects of the altar is the discovery of its plaster mold, which reveals the altar’s base that has undergone several repairs. Additionally, the masses of raw plaster and raw sand found near the mold suggest that this location was likely a workshop for constructing altars, where ceremonial altars were produced and possibly exported to subsidiary temples. This finding raises the hypothesis that sacred fire embers may have been transferred along with the altar’s base.
Labbaf-Khaniki stated that, in addition to the altar, wall paintings have been unearthed at the site for the first time in the cultural area of northeastern Iran. These paintings, executed with valuable colors, reflect the significance of the location during the Sassanid period. Its brick walls are also noteworthy, as altars in the region are typically constructed using stone and plaster.
He emphasized that the discovery of approximately 3,500 broken pieces of plasterwork is another valuable finding from the site. Among these plaster fragments, pieces depicting human faces with characteristics of Sassanid art have been found. Additionally, on one of the walls, a portion of the plasterwork remains intact, illustrating a scene where an individual is seated on a throne while others stand before him. These findings aid archaeologists in gaining a deeper understanding of the art and clothing of the Sassanid period.
Labbaf-Khaniki added that the discoveries from the valuable archaeological site provide new and valuable insights into the art, architecture, and rituals of the Sassanid period, indicating that the region held special significance during that time. Studies reveal that the four-arch structure was built in the late Sassanid period and continued to be used during the Islamic period. Surrounding it are various architectural spaces, including a columned hall, which appears to have served as a religious structure and possibly a fire temple during the Sasanian period, with its function evolving in the Islamic era.
He stated that the ancient building was not only a religious location but likely also served as a refuge for Yazdgerd III, the last Sassanid king. The new findings, ranging from unique plasterwork to Pahlavi inscriptions, illuminate new dimensions of its history.
Artistic representations
He noted that unique plasterworks have been discovered in the fire temple, including depictions of a Sassanid king sitting on a throne and wearing a crown similar to those found on the coins of Khosrow Parviz and Yazdgerd III. These artworks, executed with artistic skill, were likely commissioned by the king or the attendants of the temple during Yazdgerd III’s stay at this location. An interesting detail is that one of the depictions was left unfinished and was later covered with a mud-brick wall to protect it from damage and deterioration. It suggests that the site held special significance during a particular period in history, and its royal motifs were of great importance.
He added that one of the most important discoveries is the uncovering of over 60 pieces of Pahlavi inscriptions. These inscriptions, currently under examination by prominent specialists, provide valuable information about the administrative and religious structure of the fire temple. The term “Dar-e Atash,” found in three pieces of these inscriptions, translates to “gateway of fire” and refers to a sacred place for the royal fires. This term is also mentioned in Persian religious texts written in Pahlavi, indicating that it likely held a special status. Furthermore, one of the inscriptions details the collection of wood by the fire temple’s attendant and references the presence of the king at this location, shedding light on important aspects of daily life in it.
He stated that the archaeologists have also uncovered several Sassanid clay seals featuring depictions of winged horses and humpbacked bulls, as well as pottery dating from the Parthian period to the 3rd and 4th centuries AH. These findings show that the building was utilized for an extended period as a religious and administrative center. During the early Islamic period, the fire temple remained active, even while Neyshabur was recognized as a bureaucratic center. It suggests that it held significant cultural and religious importance for Zoroastrians, and considerable efforts were made to preserve it.
He further explained that archaeological research indicates that the original fire temple was built of mud bricks in the late Parthian period. The Sassanid period saw the dismantling of this structure, which was then replaced with a brick construction. In the second half of the Sassanid period, further additions, such as plasterworks and columns, were made. These architectural changes vividly illustrate the cultural continuity in the region.
Labbaf-Khaniki continued by stating that despite these significant discoveries, the site remains at risk from illegal excavations and destruction.
“We urge more attention from officials and relevant institutions towards the area. It is not only an archaeological treasure but can also be utilized as a research and cultural center.”
He emphasized that these discoveries not only open a new window into the history of ancient Iran but also remind us of the importance of preserving and maintaining cultural heritage. “We hope that with increased attention from officials and researchers, the archaeological site will reach its rightful place and become an inspiring resource for those interested in history and culture,” he concluded.