Inscriptions and Epigraphs, Kermanshah (Part1)
Anubanini Inscription, Sar Pol-e-Zahab
In the vicinity of Sar Pol-e-Zahab, there is an Anubanini impression engraved in the breast of a rock. The same is alongside an inscription written in Akadi script and this relic is present even up to this date.
The two embossments of this rock are related to 2800 years B.C., engraved in the breast of the a mountain reaching an elevation of 35 m. high, and it is attributed to Semitic monarch known as ‘Anubanini’. The left foot of this impression has been put on a captive. Under this engraving the faces of 16 other captives under tragic conditions have been displayed.
An inscription revealing the victory of Anubanini can also be observed below the said effect.
Arsacidian Goodarz the 2nd Inscription, Bistoon
To the east of the Miteridat embossment, on the same rock, is the engraving of one of his successors named as, Goodarz II (46-51 A.D.). This Impression depicts the victory of Goodarz II on his rival Mehrdad, and also shows the presence of two riders armed with spears. In the hand of an angel is a wreath of flowers, which is a sign of victory. Behind Goodarz, is the engraving of one of his relatives. An archaic Greek inscription has mentioned the names of these two monarchs. Today only the name of Goodarz can be noted, as the other parts of the said inscription has been demolished.
Bistoon Inscription, Bistoon
The primary scientific studies regarding the engravings and inscriptions of Bistoon were made in 1835, by Henry Rawlinson, a young British officer. After which this research was carried on by several scientists who added their discoveries to this historical treasure. The text of this inscription was engraved in the breast of the mountain in 522 B.C. by a decree from Dariush. The same relates to the war which lasted for two and a half years, between him and his opponents in order to gain power.
Encircling the Bistoon impression is an epigraph in three languages, named as, the ancient Parsi, Elamit and a Babylonian dialect.
The Elamit text is to the right of the impression, the second to the left, running parallel to the Parsi text; whereas, the Babylonian text stands above that of the second Elamit inscription. Additional and complete translations can be observed in the surroundings and to the right.
The ancient Parsi (Persian) text is in 414 lines and engraved in a beautiful uniform script on a polished surface. In all the epigraphs of Dariush the Achaemenian begins with the phrase ‘King Dariush proclaims’ and this is repeated throughout his decrees, emphasizing the grandeur and greatness of the power of this monarch. This sovereign owned his victory to Ahura Mazda and thus offered a religious effect to the epigraph to a great extent. This view can be noted and brought to light especially in the fourth column of the inscription.
Source:chnpress.com
Other links:
The province of Kermanshah
History and Culture, Kermanshah
Townships, Kermanshah (Part 1)
Townships, Kermanshah (Part 2)
Townships, Kermanshah (Part 3)
Old Mosques, Kermanshah (Part1)
Old Mosques, Kermanshah (Part 2)
Castles and Forts, Kermanshah
Fire Temples, Kermanshah
