Ivan-e Karkheh

Visiting historical monuments detaches you from the present and makes you travel to the heart of the history; such a place as Ivan-e Karkheh that is remained from Sassanid period is one of the best examples of this travels to the history. 

Ivan-e Karkheh is one of the most important attractions of Khuzestan province located in the north of the province between Susa and Dezful, along Karkheh coast. This ancient site was registered as a national heritage in 1310 SH.

Dezful Azad University appropriated 100 hectares of this ancient city in 1374 SH and started agriculture on its farms; after that the administration of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization in the city protested the action vigorously.

The ancient city of Ivan-e Karkheh was built in the time of Shapur II Sassanid. However, it remained unanimous for many years until 1950 when Roman Grishman, the famous French archaeologist, discovered it. Roman Grishman was the head of a group who dispatched to Iran by Louvre Museum for an archaeological mission.

Susa was a prospered city in time of Shapur II. After the conversion of some residents of Susa to Christian religion, Shapur II established Ivan-e Karkheh to be the substitute of Susa.

This triangular city was built with four square meter length and one square meter width. A rampant that was made of adobe was constructed around the city and the architects used the Roman style in the architecture of the city.

Ivan-e Karkheh was formed along Karkheh River and today there is a wide span where we can see the remains of its columns and walls.  The remains of silk weaving workshops in the ancient city of Ivan-e Karkheh shows the prosperity and popularity of silk fabrics in this city.

There is a brick building in the south of this ruined city that is extremely damaged in most parts. it is estimated that the height of the building is 46 meters and its width to be 50 meters. The brick arch is still standing and there are four entrances in four sides.