Ecbatana is an ancient city and widely regarded as one of the oldest and most exceptional places on earth. Hegmataneh is its modern name, and the site in western Iran is one of the most fascinating ancient cities. It is recognized for its great historical, religious, and archaeological importance, being mentioned in Persian royal records, Greek history, as well as in holy Jewish and Christian texts.
Ecbatana’s charm for scholars and travelers has continued for millennia from the time it was the first capital of the Median Empire to its rise under the Achaemenids. We invite you on this fascinating historical adventure, revealing its wonderful history, the exact Ecbatana location, as well as travel tips that may be useful to you.
Ecbatana History
The story of the ancient city of Ecbatana started about the late 8th century BCE when the Median king Deioces (Diyako) decided to make this place the capital. Ecbatana, meaning “gathering place” or “the place for assembly,” is very much indicative of its use as a political and cultural hub.
Among others, the Greek historian Herodotus spoke about the city as a splendid place with seven concentric walls, each painted a different color, surrounding it.
Cyrus the Great defeated the Medes in 550 BCE and Ecbatana was henceforth one of the key summer capitals of the vast Achaemenid Empire. The kings of Persia, including Darius and Xerxes, usually retreated there to escape the heat of Persepolis or Susa. It continued to hold a great position and importance under the Parthians and Sasanians, thus demonstrating its strategic worth over centuries.
Hegmataneh Hill
The very center of the ancient city was located under and around Hegmataneh Hill, which is nowadays Hamadan. This large tell, which measures nearly 30 hectares, has been an archaeological site since the beginning of the 20th century. The Iranian and international teams have brought to light the evidence for a grand urban plan more than 2,700 years old.
Among the findings that can hardly be anything more excellent is the parallel street pattern, which is one of the earliest instances of urbanism planned in the ancient world. The ruins of the huge walls for defense, plus the living areas and the halls full of columns, have kept coming to light. Hegmataneh Hill is now acknowledged as the most important place for revealing the development of Iranian culture prior to the Achaemenid period.
Architectural Marvels
Ecbatana’s architectural prowess was renowned in antiquity. The city was said to have been enclosed by seven concentric walls, each constructed with a different color, symbolizing the seven noble houses of the Medes. The grandeur of Ecbatana’s architecture was further emphasized by its splendid palaces, gardens, and temples.
Among the most remarkable structures was the Palace of Darius, where the Persian king Darius the Great reportedly received his subjects and foreign dignitaries. The palace was adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, showcasing the artistic skill of the time.
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Ecbatana in the Bible
Ecbatana is mentioned several times in Hebrew Scripture under the name Achmetha (the Aramaic form). In The Book of Ezra (6:2), it is written that the decree of Cyrus allowing the
Jews to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem was discovered in the archives at Ecbatana.
Important events are also depicted taking place in the city in the Book of
Tobit and the Book of Judith. For Judeo-Christians, the reference to Ecbatana in the Bible symbolizes the intersection of the Persian Empire and biblical history. The religious sources of the city’s ancient famelie mainly in its being the center of Persian administration at the time when a huge population of Jews was living under Achaemenid rule.
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Visiting Hegmataneh Today (Tourist Guide)
Today, when you step onto the Hegmataneh Hill, it is as if you are walking through a time machine showing the history of the site layer by layer. Even though most of ancient Ecbatana is still underground, the excavated areas and museum provide an intriguing window to see Iran’s distant past.
What to See in Hegmataneh
The archaeological site that is open to the public displays parts of the ancient grid-patterned roads, huge walls made of mud bricks, and the bases of buildings. The Hegmataneh Museum, located on the premises, is a storehouse of wonderful artifacts.
The magnificent and ancient artifacts include pottery, inscriptions and silver rhytons unearthed during the digging. While visiting, make sure not to miss the reconstructed section showing the famous seven colored walls described by Herodotus.
Best Time to Visit Ecbatana
The perfect times to visit Ecbatana are spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) when Hamadan has nice, mild weather. The summer weather can be hot during the day but cool at night, while winter is all about snow and below-zero temperatures—a beautiful but difficult season for outdoor activities.
Tips for Travelers
- Pronunciation: If you are wondering how to pronounce Ecbatana, it goes like this: ek + bat + uh + nuh
- Visiting Hours: 8:00–19:00 (spring/summer), 8:00–17:00 (autumn/winter)
- Entrance Fee: Approximately 500,000 IRR (check current rates)
- Dress in a modest way (headscarf for women, long trousers recommended for men in summer heat)
- Make sure to have a pair of comfortable shoes since there are places with difficult walking at the site
- Taxis and the Iranian ride-hailing app Snapp are the most convenient ways to get around Hamadan
- Attractions around are: Ganjnameh inscriptions, Alavian Dome, and the Tomb of Esther and Mordechai
Ecbatana Location: Where to Find This Ancient City
It is not hard to find the exact Ecbatana location – it is located underneath the modern city of Hamadan (ancient name: Hamadān) in western Iran, around 360 km southwest of
Tehran. At an altitude of 1,800 meters on the slopes of the Alvand Mountain,
the city has pleasant summers and cold winters with snow.
The Hegmataneh Hill archaeological site is situated in the central-eastern part of Hamadan and is quite accessible by taxi or public bus from any part of the city. For international travelers arriving by air, Hamadan has a domestic airport with regular flights from Tehran, or you can fly into Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport and take a road trip (about 4-5 hours) to Hamadan.
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Preservation and Modern Significance
Today, Ecbatana, or Hegmataneh as it is known locally, stands as an archaeological site of immense historical value. The excavations have revealed glimpses of its former glory, including the remnants of palaces, temples, and defensive walls. These findings provide a tangible connection to Iran’s rich past and offer valuable insights into the civilizations that once thrived here.
Efforts are underway to preserve and protect this historical treasure. Museums in Hamadan house artifacts unearthed from the site, allowing visitors to explore the city’s history and cultural heritage. Furthermore, Ecbatana’s historical significance has earned it a place on Iran’s tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status, a recognition that would further highlight its importance on the global stage. Make your arrival stress-free by booking a trusted Iran airport transfer in advance.
Last Word
Ecbatana, or Hegmataneh, is not just a collection of ancient ruins; it’s a portal to a bygone era when powerful empires ruled the land, and cultural exchange flourished. Its historical significance, architectural marvels, and role in shaping Iran’s cultural identity make it a place of enduring importance. As efforts to preserve and study Ecbatana continue, it remains a testament to the enduring power of history and the human spirit’s ability to leave a lasting mark on the world.
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