a rock carving depicting Persian and Median soldiers returning from battle

History's first superpower sprang from ancient Iran

Under the leadership of Cyrus the Great, Persia ruled the world's first true empire, centered in Iran and stretching from Europe to Egypt to India.

Distinguished by their headdresses, Median and Persian soldiers parade across this relief from the Apadana (Audience Hall) at Persepolis, illustrating how the empire valued diversity.
Courtesy Simon Norfolk/NB Pictures/Contacto
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