Hamadan: The Timeless Heart of Persian History and Culture

The ancient city of Hamadan, located in west-central Iran, is indeed one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities globally. Known historically as Ecbatana, it served as the capital of the Median Empire around 700 BCE and was later integral to several major empires due to its strategic location at the northeastern foot of Mount Alvand. This location not only positioned Hamadan as a cultural and political hub but also facilitated its role in trade across Persia, connecting with major routes that extended to the Mediterranean and Central Asia.

Hamadan’s rich history is marked by both prosperity and resilience. During the Achaemenid Empire, it became a summer residence for Persian kings, highlighting its status as a royal city. The city is also referenced in the Bible, specifically in the Book of Ezra, which emphasizes its importance as a significant political and administrative center. Under the Parthian Empire, Hamadan maintained its relevance, often serving as a summer capital, a testament to its enduring significance in Iranian history.

Over the centuries, Hamadan endured several invasions, including the devastating Mongol invasion in the 13th century and Timur's conquests in the 14th century. Despite these challenges, the city was rebuilt repeatedly, reflecting the resilience of its people and their dedication to preserving their heritage. Hamadan transformed into a vital center for Islamic culture and scholarship, becoming home to many intellectuals and poets. Among the most notable figures was Avicenna (Ibn Sina), the renowned Persian polymath whose contributions to philosophy and medicine are still celebrated. His mausoleum in Hamadan remains a symbol of the city’s intellectual legacy.

Modern-day Hamadan attracts numerous tourists who come to explore its historical and cultural landmarks, such as the Tomb of Avicenna, the Ganj Nameh inscriptions, and Alavian Dome. The Ganj Nameh inscriptions, ancient cuneiform texts carved into Mount Alvand, are significant relics from the Achaemenid period and offer insights into the languages and histories of ancient Persian civilizations. This blend of ancient heritage and continued cultural significance makes Hamadan a remarkable site, exemplifying a city that has adapted to the currents of history while preserving its rich past.
Hamadan: The Timeless Heart of Persian History and Culture

Greek city of Thebes

Thebes is a city in Greece situated to the north of the Cithaeron range, which divides Boeotia from Attica and on the southern edge of the Boeotian plain.

In Greek mythology Cadmus was reputed founder of the Greek city of Thebes. In Greek myth, Zeus stole Europa. Cadmus went on search of her. Cadmus travelled to Greece where he founded the city of Thebes. 

In legend, he created a seven sided citadel, Archeologist have uncovered the ruins of a seven sided building in Thebes that bears an inscription with name of Camus.

Thebes was known for its first-rate army, which included a strong Cavalry arm, and throughout its history the city usually dominated all of Boeotia.

Before to its destruction by Alexander the Great in 335 BC, Thebes was a major force in Greek history and was the most dominant city-state at the time of the Macedonia conquest of Greek.

During the Persian Wars, the Thebans allied with many Greek city-states to fight against an invading army at the battle of Thermopylae, in 480 BC.

However, shortly after the battle they changed sides and joined with Persians to fight against Athens and Sparta.

In 479 BC at the battle of Plataea they were defeated. Later in the century Thebes was drawn into the struggles of Sparta against Athens for control of Greece.

In the summer of 371 BC, the Thebans defeated the Spartans at the battle of Leuctra, near Thebes. By crippling Sparta, the Theban leader, Epaminondas raised Thebes to a position of supremacy.

However, Epaminondas did not establish a powerful kingdom. When he died in 363 BC, he left Greece open to outside invasion and domination..

In 338 BC an elite military unit The Scared Band of Thebes fell at the battle of Chaeronea against Philip II and Alexander the Great.
Greek city of Thebes