Behestan Castle is a stunning historical fortress in Zanjan Province, northwestern Iran, the unique honeycomb-like exterior of which tells the tale of ancient civilizations — from the Medes to the Islamic era.

Located near the Qezel Ozan River in the village of Behestan, the Behestan Castle stands as one of the most significant and captivating ancient monuments in Mahneshan, Zanjan. Its striking exterior resembles a wall of clustered, chimney-like structures, a testament to the ingenious defensive architecture of the Medes, who first entered the Iranian plateau along this very river.

Historically, the castle's importance spanned centuries, with its peak use believed to have extended well into the Islamic period, as evidenced by discovered pottery dating from the 5th to 7th centuries AH (Hijri).

As a registered National Heritage Site, the castle not only offers breathtaking views but also serves as a tangible link to the deep and layered history of the region.

M.Majdi - seyed mohammad kazemi