Persepolis, Hall of 32 Columns

Persepolis (Old Persian Pârsa, modern Takht-e Jamshid): Greek name of one of the capitals of the ancient Achaemenid Empire, founded by king Darius the Great (r.522-486 BCE). There were several satellite sites, Naqš-e Rustam and Takht-e Rustam.

The Hall of thirty-two columns in Persepolis (map 9) was built by Artaxerxes III Ochus (r.358-338), but its function is unclear. It had one portico, but was essentially a closed building. It is the site where a famous plaque of blue fayence, decorated with an eagle, was excavated. Although it was probably part of the room's decoration, but it has been suggested that it represents a military standard.