Hamadan: Ancient Ecbatana and Gateway to Persian Treasures

Journey to Persia’s Historic Heart

Our trip from Shiraz to Hamadan is a voyage through time. Opting for a flight+bus combination (~$45 flight + ~$5.50 bus) cuts travel time from 18 to just 9 hours. Hamadan, known in antiquity as Ecbatana, served as the summer capital of both the Median and Achaemenid Empires. With 3,000 years of continuous habitation, it’s one of the world’s oldest living cities!

Hamadan city view
The historic cityscape of Hamadan

Accommodations & Urban Discoveries

We check into Hotel Ordibehesht (~$19/night). Hamadan offers unique urban experiences:

  • Interactive shadow murals – Playful optical illusion art installations
  • Community parks – Vibrant social hubs for chess games and storytelling
  • Local specialty – Creamy ice cream served in fresh carrot juice

Historical footnote: During WWII, Hamadan sheltered Polish refugees evacuated with General Anders’ Army, many of whom lived here for years before continuing their global odyssey.

Hamadan locals
Daily life in Hamadan’s streets

Ali Sadr Cave: Nature’s Subaquatic Masterpiece

A private taxi to Ali Sadr (~$17) is ideal, though shared taxis offer budget alternatives. This world-record holding water cave dazzles with:

  • Boat expeditions – 1.2 miles through illuminated underground waterways
  • Boardwalk trails – Revealing magnificent mineral formations
  • Geological wonders – Ancient limestone sculptures millions of years in the making
Ali Sadr Cave interior
The mesmerizing Ali Sadr Cave

Bisotun: Imperial Chronicles in Stone

This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains Iran’s most significant archaeological treasures:

  • Darius the Great’s relief (520 BCE) – Commemorates his victory over the usurper Gaumata
  • Hercules Statue – A Hellenistic masterpiece from the 2nd century BCE
  • Hunter’s Cave – Contains evidence of Paleolithic settlements

Reach Bisotun via bus from Hamadan (~$3.60) or from nearby Kermanshah (12 miles away).

Bisotun relief
The monumental Bisotun inscriptions

Essential Travel Tips

  • Transport: Always negotiate taxi fares beforehand
  • Admission: Ali Sadr ~$17, Bisotun ~$4.75
  • Ideal season: Spring and autumn avoid extreme summer heat
  • Culinary must: Sample ash-e doogh – a refreshing yogurt-based soup

Hamadan and its surroundings form a living museum where ancient monuments harmonize with breathtaking natural wonders and legendary Persian hospitality.