Gate of All Nations -

#familytravel #couplestrip The Gate of All Nations in Persepolis. The Gate of All Nations is one of the most iconic and symbolically rich structures in Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran). It was constructed under the reign of Xerxes I (reigned 486–465 BCE), son of Darius the Great, and served as the formal entrance to the royal complex. The gate embodied the empire’s cosmopolitan nature, welcoming visitors from across its vast territories. Architecturally, the gate consists of a large square hall with four stone columns and three monumental doorways. The eastern and western entrances were guarded by colossal lamassu—winged bulls with human heads—borrowed from Mesopotamian iconography, symbolizing divine protection and royal power. These impressive figures reinforced the strength and authority of the Achaemenid kings. The name “Gate of All Nations” reflects the multicultural vision of the empire. Delegations from across the empire—Egyptians, Babylonians, Indians, Medes, and others—passed through this gate during formal processions, especially during the Nowruz (Persian New Year) celebrations. The gate thus served as a stage for imperial unity and diplomacy. Though much of the gate has suffered from time and destruction, its ruins still convey the grandeur and ideological significance of Persepolis.