Ashu Zarathushtra Spitama, prophet of ancient Iran, founded Mazdayasna (the Good Religion)—the first monotheistic faith. The triad "Humata, Hukhta, Hvarshta" (Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds) forms its ethical foundation.
Fun Facts
The exact date of Zoroaster is debated: proposals range from 1700 BCE to 600 BCE. The Gathas, hymns composed by Zoroaster himself, are the oldest part of the Avesta. Concepts of heaven, hell, resurrection, angels, demons, and a savior (Saoshyant) passed from Zoroastrianism to Abrahamic religions.
Related Events
Construction of Persepolis
Darius I ordered construction of "Parsa" (Persepolis) on the slopes of Mount Rahmat. Built on a 125,000 m² stone terrace, it served as the ceremonial capital for Nowruz and Mehregan celebrations. Construction spanned 150 years across multiple kings.
Completion of the Royal Road
The Royal Road was a 2,699 km paved highway connecting Susa (administrative capital) to Sardis (Lydia). With 111 relay stations where couriers changed horses, messages traveled at astonishing speed across the empire.
Burning of Persepolis
After capturing Persepolis, Alexander allowed looting of the treasuries. Reportedly 10,000 mules and 5,000 camels were needed to carry the gold and silver. Then the palaces burned—some say at the urging of Thais the Athenian, others call it revenge for the Acropolis burning.
Academy of Gondishapur
Gondishapur (Jundishapur) in Khuzestan was the greatest intellectual center of the ancient world. The academy taught medicine, philosophy, astronomy, mathematics, and theology. Its teaching hospital became the model for Islamic hospitals.