Journal of Archaeological Studies

Abstract The Sassanid kings, named after the Sassan, great of Pars and the priest of the Anahita Temple in the Estakhr ruled in Iran from the third to the seventh century AD. The most important buildings of Sassanians in Iran are the majestic palaces of the kings. Bisapur is one of the most important cities of the Sassanid era, which is located in Kazerun County. Following an archaeological study on the Sassanid pavement located in the mountainous region of the city of Kotal in the east of Kazerun city, the remains of some stone masses from the Sassanid era came to light on the basis of archaeological investigations and studies by the Cultural Heritage office of Kazerun. It was discovered that these two sites were used as a stone mines. Stone is one of the materials used to build bisapur buildings. Considering that in most cases archaeological investigations are based on material evidence, it is necessary to better understand these data and interpret them by using interdisciplinary sciences. Accordingly, in this research, a field survey and sampling of the stones used in the construction of Bisapur buildings have been carried out and after sampling of the Bishapur buildings, comparison of samples taken from other stone mines (based on laboratory methods) for understanding the source of stones extraction has been addressed. To achieve this, the experimental methods of studying the Thin Sections of the stones, as well as the XRD and XRF analysis were applied and it was determined by the experiments that the mines and buildings stones of the Sassanid era of Bishapur (Valerian Palace, Anahita Temple and Towers) were made of genus compounds with similar structures.

Abstract The vast ancient area of Vigol located in the northern part of the city of ?r?n-o-Bidgol was identified by the authors of the present article in Autumn 2006 and underwent a systematic archeological study as a result of which remnants of the two independent cities were identified with two separate governmental castles. Since, apart from the said castles, other urban areas, works of architecture, and items of cultural elements were buried under flowing sand, archeological investigations were carried out with difficulty, yet due to the fact that the sands served as a means to protect the said pieces and works, items of the cultural elements were found in a relatively intact condition.
Nevertheless, the team managed, upon permission by the Archeological Research Center, to conduct an investigation on some 100 hectares of the mentioned cities. Chronological study of the surface data revealed that the two cities were inhabited since the Sassanid era up to the end of the Seljuk Dynasty in Iran, that is to say, the end of the sixth century after Hegira.
Following a brief introduction of the above two cities, the present study analyses the data derived from a field surveys on the settlement eras, form and functions of the cities, and where possible, the grounds underlying their decline.

Abstract Despite the lack of a clear understanding of the relationships of eastern and southeastern Arabia with different Iranian regions during pre-Sassanian era and the paucity of written evidence from this period, the huge corpus of archaeological evidence obtained from this region and the few available historical documents show that the region maintained close contacts with Iran and was under legal and formal control of the Parthians.
As its main objective, the present work seeks to analyze the archaeological material from the Parthian sites in eastern and southeastern Arabia that corroborate these contacts.
Pottery is among the major material that reflects the close ties that existed between sites in the southern and northern regions of the Persian Gulf. Pottery sherds are the most frequent evidence that support relationship between southern shores of the Persian Gulf and different regions of Iran during Sassanian and Parthian periods, in particular diagnostic examples that are widely known from Iranian sites. Of particular related examples are glazed, monochrome and bichrome painted, Londo, eggshell, and coarse black types.
Apart from pottery, other categories of the material culture such as coins, metal objects, glasses, statuettes, architecture, and Aramian inscriptions are now available from a number of Parthian sites in eastern and southeastern Arabia to prove the close contacts of the northern and southern coasts of the Persian Gulf.

Abstract One of the most important sits of Sasanian period in Iran from which the Royal Hunting Plaques were recovered has been Chal Tarkhan of Eshgh Abad. There was a Sasanian palace containing a considerable number of stucco representing variety of subject pointing to a deep understanding of Sasanian stucco art. In spite of the researchers made by e.g. Thompson and Kroger on this Plaques yet, there have been doubts around their true identity as well as theirs art styles. The pieces of Chal Tarkhan stucco plaques represen three version of hunting scene by Sasanian Kings consisting of Bahram and Azade on a camel, King on a deer and several pieces of the King on the horseback.
In this article we review the most special characteristics of the plaques motifs through making a comparative study among the well known motifs of Sasanian objects to place the Royal Hunting of Chal Tarkhan Plaques in their real chronological order. We also attempted to explain the artistic sides of the Plaques as the different art works of Sassanians represent different ideas and motifs.
 

Abstract The higher mountainous region of the Central Zagros is regarded as one of the important regions for the early human settlements. Although archaeological studies have been initiated from the early 20s but there has been little precise information on the absolute chronology and also transitional processes of cultural sequences especially on the eastern parts of the region including eastern Luristan. Archaeological excavation of Tappeh Qela-Gap carried out in 2009 in the Azna district. The previous study including four seasons of surveying identified 280 archaeological sites; one of which is Tappeh Qela-Gap is selected for excavation because of its different cultural sequences. The main aim of the excavation project firstly was to evaluate the regional chronology of the region as a whole and then to see the local variations of the site to establish a chronological framework for Azna plain. Two small soundings and also a wide trench dug out on the site provided some evidences corresponding to the early village life, pastoralism and cultural transformations of the region during the late Neolithic through the late Islamic phases.

Abstract In the Islamic tradition it has been described that Prophet has gone to Ascension by a fantastic creature called "Buraq". Many Pictures and descriptions of “Boraq” remained in the paintings and literary texts such as: horse, four-legged creatures winged or wingless and so on. In mysticism, “Boraq” has different specific concepts and interpretations. According to descriptions and images, “Boraq” is placed as fabulous creatures "human-animal".The imaginative creatures have a mythological history. Extraordinary examples of fabulous creatures were created on bronze art work in Luristan. There is a problem as what similarity is between the physical structure of “Boraq” and the bronze motifs in Luristan? Some composed art designs such as "human-animal" are embossed in the Luristan bronzes indicating similarities between them and the “Boraq” illustrations. This study aimed to determine the history of mythological motifs matching the “Boraq” appearance in one hand and understanding the concepts of motifs applied on the Luristan boronz working on the other hand to which a comparative was performed and information derived from library data were analysed. Results showed that there has been a similarity between the Prophet's “Boraq” designs and those motifs were seen from Luristan bronze motifs which in turn may have been assumed to be borrowed from the ancient Iranian Mithraism and or other Indo-Iranian beliefs.

Abstract   Historical sources of early Islamic centuries have been introduced “Kelaar” as an flourishing city in the mountainous area between Tabarestan and Deilam which nowadays is known as “Kelardasht” in Mazandaran. In the middle of 3^rd century, this city appeared as the political center of Tabarestan uprising against Taherian dynasty under Hassan Ibn Zaid-e Alavi leadership. Despite of its importance in the early Islamic centuries, archaeologists who studied the remains of “Tappeh Kelaar” site in the Kelardasht, didn’t recognize strong evidence of continuous Islamic occupation on the upper levels of site. Although there have been some evidence of early Islamic occupations in the tappeh Kelar, but its low density layers (50 Cm) may not imply for a long term occupations to assign it as a city as written sources indicated. It is assumed that Muslim rulers selected a place with a specific defensive and subsistence capability near the sassanian Kelaar. In order to find and introduce remains of Islamic Kelaar, data gathered from studying the early and middle Islamic written sources as well as data from systematic surface survey. According to the results, it is probably obvious that “Shahr-e Dele”, a site with 25 hectares extent, in the 1.5 km north of “tappeh Kelaar” and near the northern part of “Sardabrood” river, can be regarded as the Islamic Kelaar city. So, the Kelardasht Muslim rulers have built a new city (apart from sasanian Kelaar) as their government center.    

Abstract It has been proposed that some structures at Persepolis served as calendarical or astronomical mechanisms. Despite a general lack of evidence of such functionality at the site, a stone slab in the Central Palace (the Tripylon Gate) has been claimed as evidence supporting this theory. The chiseled signs on this slab have been interpreted as symbols indicating the precise time of the spring equinox (March 21) marking the beginning of the new year. The suggestion that the Central Palace served as an ancient observatory, however, requires a closer inspection. To properly interpret the intended function of this stone and its mysterious signs, it must be studied in the context of archaeological and architectural investigations.

Abstract The problem of historical geography and extent of Median territory in Neo-Assyrian period, from 9th to 7th centuries B.C. has always made dissensions. Given the extent of Median territory in Achaemenid and Parthian periods, early historians and Assyriologists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries considered Median realm extending from Zagros mountains to central plateau of Iran. From 1970s onwards, however, a new minimalistic approach to the historical geography of Neo-Assyrian Zagros has appeared and proposed a large Median territory than previously assumed and located Media on the western flanks of Alvand Mountain ranges. The advocates of this minimalistic approach have put limits on the extent of Assyrian dominance in Iran and consider the Alvand as the last spot of Assyrian Armies’ penetration to the east. The present study deals with assessing these contradictory assumptions. We also try to determine the Median boarders and also try to locate the main regions and cities of Media based on the Assyrian written sources.

Abstract Although many studies and excavations at Islamic sites have been done, and something position of Islamic pottery have been marked, but there is a lot of problem exist in this case like centers of pottery and stylistics diversity. Therefore archaeological excavationswith accurate studies can solve very of this problems. In this paper Il-Khanid pottery from three season archeological excavation at Arzanfood  will be study, with hypothesis that they product at Hamedan. One of the important point of this study is that the situation of some Il-Khanid pottery at Hamadan, such”black under blue painted” and “Sultānabād pottery” from the point of view stylistic and production centers have been detected. whit this study ,Hamedan is another of the production centers of ”black under blue painted” pottery and“Sultānabād pottery” and Beside them, some new glazed pottery related to this period discovered and studied.

Abstract Laran County in Highland Zagros in Bakhtiari region consist of two major rivers; Karun and zayandeh Roud and Perhaps one of the few areas of the country that has not witnesed archaeological activities. According to Geographical location and ecological capabilities of the region, it is essential that to know which environmental factors Influence to create, bumping or contribute abandoned sites? This study carried out with descriptive and analytical methods to analyze and classify data using GIS and SPSS software. By examining environmental factors we determined that pasture and water seasonal resources have the greatest impact on the creating and sustaining sites. Four clusters were determined through cluster analysis and classified the sites to have been acted as temporary settlements with the animal husbandry and limited farming.  subsistence economy.

Abstract The parthian period in Iran is less known than other historical periods. The information that presents historical and historical geography can be the source of the Parthians in Northeast Iran, especially Khorasan and parts of the Gorgan plain. With the passage of time and changing the governmental centers of this series from the northeastern part of Iran to the Western lands, their arts and cultures have also been transformed, which can only be seen in the remnants of its western state centers. On the other hand, based on limited studies and heterogeneity in Khorasan, this cultural period can be considered completely unknown in this area. Based on archaeological investigations of the Mashhad plain, the Ismail-Abad Tappeh has been identified with surface materials belonging to the Parthian period. In the present research, it is attempted to reconstruct the Kashafrud River basin's parchment traditions, based on the typological studies and comparative studies, which can somehow clarify the cultures of the Khorasan region, as well as the basis of the relative syntax of this period in the region. The results of the research indicate that there are several forms and types of pottery that, due to the origin and initial formation of the dynasty in this area, are borrowed to some extent from the ancient traditions of the previous period (Iron period, the culture of the so-called Yaz) and have classes Local is also known as other well-known traditions in the central and western parts of Iran.

Abstract Botkhaneh Cave located at 21 km southwest of Kuhdasht, is one of the archaeological sites which has probably been occupied by mobile pastoralists which through the time the cave was deeply looted. During a rescue archaeological operation the material culture was collected by the last author and his team. The results of the pottery analysis and the occupation pattern in the adjacent sites represent the continuity of a temporary occupation in the cave. In this paper, we assess the characteristics of this site through an archaeozoological study of the animal remains. The faunal assemblage of this site is composed of domestic and wild. Caprines (sheep and goat) followed by bovines and equids are the most represented taxa while a considerable amount of donkey remains could be identified. We also developed analysis for the kill-off patterns for Caprines and some other taphonomic variations. These observations help to better understand the faunal accumulation in the Botkhaneh Cave in relation to the other archaeological materials.

Abstract To date, no experimental investigations utilizing petrographic, XRF, ICP, or TL methodologies have been undertaken for the analysis of Sasanian and Early Islamic pottery in Western Iran. Consequently, the findings of this study are anticipated to contribute valuable insights into the pottery production processes prevalent during this historical period in Western Iran. To achieve this objective, eight pottery specimens retrieved from the excavations of the Jahangir monument were submitted to the Research Institute of Cultural Heritage and the Geological Survey for petrographic analysis, while two samples each were designated for XRF, ICP, and thermoluminescence assessments. The primary research inquiries pertain to elucidating the composition and structure of the pottery, determining the firing intensity in the kiln, and discerning whether the pottery is of indigenous or imported origin. The outcomes of the experiments indicate the presence of three predominant compounds—quartz, iron oxide, and calcite—in the majority of samples procured from the Jahangir monument. Nonetheless, certain pottery specimens incorporate mica particles or chert stone in the clay composition. With few exceptions, the pottery is ascertained to be domestically manufactured, denoting its local provenance within the region. The texture of the selected pottery samples is characterized as silty, porphyritic, and inhomogeneously silty. The identification of calcite in the clay of all Jahangir pottery suggests a maximum kiln temperature of 800°C during the firing process. Furthermore, notwithstanding a limited number of exceptions, the scarcity of soil variations in the majority of pottery specimens implies a shared geographical origin

Abstract In the course of selecting a route that lacks any archaeological artefacts and in order to construct an appropriate access path to Kangelo Fort in Savadkouh at Mazandaran Province, an activity was done in the form of sounding operation by considering as a test (trial) and it led to discovery of a rare grave with burial structure formed by Embryonic Method plus the related objects relating to the late Sassanid era as well as two graves from Islamic period. Sassanid grave differs from the usual type of burials at this period and from author’s viewpoint, in addition to signifying to duration of a very older tradition, it refers to emphasis of the ruling king of northern Iran on his preceding customs and its people. As we know, Zoroasterianism was the official religion during Sassanid Empire. This religion was followed by variation in religious rites while by virtue of text of “Letter of Tosar” (high priest during Ardashir, Sassanid King) as compiling the valid theological texte during Sassanids, the independent king of Gilan and Mazandaran rejected to accept this religion; one that was declared formally as the main religion throughout the Iranian Monarchical Realm. And also he accused Ardashir to heresy and heterodoxy to tradition (Zorosterian Orthodoxy). In this paper, we will introduce the aforesaid burial method and its findings rather than description of sounding operation.

Abstract Nowadays, the isotopic analysis solves many important issues in archeology and anthropology including the reconstruction of past diets, tracing the footsteps of the ancient migrations and recognition of climatic change. Important topics of the past regime and dietary habits of ethnic groups cover many aspects of human life as determination of changes in the dietary systems plays an important role in the mechanisms of survival, social and economic organizations of past societies. Determination of differences in food sources of men and women of past archaeological sites can be used not only for the characterization of the various dietary systems of past humans but to identify the social status of gender as well as underlying family relations. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how isotopic analysis work to determine gender differences in dietary systems. For this through this study we specifically used the results of stable isotope nitrogen (δ¹⁵N) analysis of teeth samples recovered from the people buried in an Iranian Iron Age cemetery.

Abstract The study of burials in ancient world is one of the most important sources to recognize religions, culture and ideological beliefs of ancient peoples. In the Sassanid eras, also it seems that by appearing Zarathustra as an official religion and strengthening fire-worshippers and the clergy, they tried that the burial method and hiding the dead bodies would be performed according to their religious laws. Water and Soil are sacred in Zarathustra religion, and if the body is buried into the soil, it will be contaminated, if it is drowned in to the water, it will be impure, and if it is burned they will be committed the greatest sins by polluting this heavenly brightness. On the basis of these ideas, at first, they placed the bodies of the dead into the tombs built on the mountains, mounds and heights while their flesh would be decayed, then their bones would be transferring into places called Estudan. Since less religious patterns has been remained that are directly related to this matter in the country. These Estudans can elucidate many points about religious beliefs in the period before Islam, and unfortunately the main part of this information are disappearing because of many factors threatening them. Many of these Estudans are placed at Shoushtar area, and some of them have inscription and signs of Sassanians. The present study is an attempt to identify and investigate the most valuable aspects these ancient works with a reference to the written sources.

Abstract < p dir="ltr">Jahangir is one of the most prominent Sasanian sites In the west of Iran that excavated due to locating in the flood level of Kangir dam (Eyvan). The deficiency of knowledge about the manner of constructing, settlement areas, causes of formation, collapse and chronology of these structures, specify the type of livelihood, study the industries and various arts such as stucco decorations, glasses, metallurgy, pottery, determining the elements, architectural decorations and materials, functions and effective factors in different artistic styles are the questions and aims of excavation. In order to answer mentioned questions, a descriptive-analytical method with the help of excavation and historical texts have been used. At the end of three seasons of archaeological excavations, the plan of a huge building included 11Spaces had been revealed. These Spaces consisted of two (Eyvans) porches and some rooms, with a courtyard and interior area that built with rubble and a mortar of Semi-baked and Semi-pressed plaster and brick for ceilings. Asymmetric geometric structure, division of interior and exterior areas, spatial variations and significant role of  Eyvans in spatial organization of the complex are the most important features of the three phases of architecture. Various artworks in this complex are influenced by the current Sasanian art, but it has own independent and native identity. According to the archaeological data, it could be claim that Jahangir site have been designed for official requirements. The construction of this site could be interpreted in the base of natural landscape and counted as a manor house with ritual/settlement function among the other palaces of this period.

Abstract Sources which were used for minting coins may help us recognize the mines that Parthians used for mint houses that were marked on their coins. These signs may solve many politico-economic issues or may even lead to the recognition of their mines. The coins under study were related to Ecbatana mint house and were extracted from silver mines through cupellation. The chemical composition of these coins was similar to those extracted for minting coins. In addition to the re-melting of metals, the increased population and expansion of business made new sources for minting coins necessary. In this article, we try to recognize mines and workshops used for minting coins by examining chemical compositions of Parthian coins, and determine the least number of metal workshops for minting coins at the time of the rulers of that dynasty.

Abstract   The climatic conditions of Sistan plain and its coexistence paved the way for settlement of human populations, establishment of various residential sites and perhaps more importantly, emergence of civilizations that have given rise to the great cities such as Shahri-Sukhteh and Tang-e Gholaman.   Although the accumulation of residential areas in the plain during different times and their proximity to the Hirmand River has attracted archaeologists over the past decades to this culturally rich region but study of hundreds of Islamic sites still remains ambiguous.   The present research therefore, studies the distribution and chronology of these sites during Islamic era based on the historical texts, reports of archaeological activities and other related documents and evidence. In particular, it has been attempted to determine the development of Islamic cities in Sistan region and to study their changes during the Islamic era based on the archaeological records. It has also been tried to analyze the functionalities of the major cities of Sistan during the early Islamic period.   The results of this research indicate that the capital of Sistan region has moved during Islamic era to be centered in the various cities and the cities such as Zaranj, Shahr-e Sistan, Shahr-e Sistan-e Nou, Jalal-Abaad, Kondark, Sekooheh and Shahr-e Naseri, were in turn appointed as the governmental centres of Sistan during Islamic era in the stated order.      

Abstract Studying and understanding social, economic and political structures of Iron Age societies is an important aspect of archaeological studies on this age. Archaeological surveys of Iron Age in Iran have so far been concentrated on typological study and comparison of the findings obtained from excavations in the cemeteries of this era, and little attention has been paid to examining and reconstructing various social, economical and political aspects of societies of this period. Our archaeological knowledge of Iron Age Iran is greatly based on the excavations carried out in cemeteries of this period, but settlement sites have not been examined sufficiently.
Most researchers have so far classified Iron Age peoples of Iran as societies lacking organized political and administrative institutions, and have referred to them as wanderers, on the basis of the small number of the settlement sites. Studying, explaining and analyzing the data obtained from the excavation of the settlement sites of this period can prove the existence of social, economic and political institutions and that they were well organized.
The discovery of some grey potsherds with cylinder seal impressions along with such evidences as seals, plaster tokens, big crocks and remains of crock plumps in granaries and places of special usage in large and important Iron Age settlement sites, provides good evidence on social and economic organizations related to agricultural affairs.

Abstract Excavations at Gird-i Ashoan, an archaeological mound in Piranshahr County in the Lower Zab Basin, have provided remarkable insights into the cultural traditions of the region during the Late Chalcolithic. Whilst reflecting some indigenous peculiarities, its material culture exhibits broad affinities with Northwestern Iran, the Caucasus, and Anatolia. This evinces the spread of the Late Chalcolithic (LC) cultures, especially LC2‒3, over vast territories, which could imply either population movements or the spread of a certain pastoralist subsistence system. The central stimulus was favorable climatic conditions, presumably a significant reduction in cold that fostered a climate almost similar to present conditions. Building on the finds from Gird-i Ashoan, the present paper addresses the reasons for the chaff-faced pottery’s extension over a wide geographic area from the Caucasus to Mesopotamia, northern Syria and northwestern Iran. Excavations at the site brought to light a Late Chalcolithic settlement of an unprecedentedly substantial range, consisting of about 8 m of continuous deposits. The pottery assemblages from the site include chaff-faced ware and Painted Pisdeli ware, suggesting that the site’s strongest interactions were with the Caucasus, Anatolia, and Mesopotamia

Abstract This article is the result of theoretical and preliminary studies of 240 Shekel (Siglo) coins of the Achaemenid Empire. This valuable collection was obtained by the police of Mazandaran province in 2010 from antique smugglers in Amol city. Currently, these very diverse and valuable coins, which were discovered from a place in the south of Iran and near the port of Assaluyeh, are kept in the Museum in Sari city. Because documenting coins in museums was limited to basic recordings, we had the opportunity to document all the coins in the collection for library studies and comparisons. Documentary of coins was done by measuring, weighing, hand drawing, computer drawing, photography and scanning. After this stage, the main questions and objectives of research were posed. Preliminary studies and comparisons confirmed the attribution of coins to the Achaemenid period. Also, the initial results of the documentation, that's mean examining the details of the image of the coins, including the crown, clothes, weapons, body shape and face details, showed differences in their minting and made it possible to compare them with referable samples. Although in this study, some materials have been proposed to confirm the authenticity and dating and identify the time range of the studied coins, nevertheless, accurate determination of their authenticity and scientific chronology will be possible after more accurate experiments.Coins were invented as a result of the development of societies and the economic needs of human beings. The first coins were minted by the Lydia government. Cyrus the Great, recognized the need to use it, but Darius I minted gold and silver coins for the first time in Iran. The gold coins were called "Darik" and the silver coins were called "Shekel" ) Siglo (. Shekel is a silver coin weighing 5.60 grams. During the Achaemenid period, four types of coinage were minted: 1- Imperial coin 2- Satrap coinage 3- State coins with the image of the emperor 4- Local coins or non-Iranian lands that were under Persian rule. Imperial coinage have no writing; Therefore, their classification needs to be carefully studied and compared with similar samples. The collection studied (Shekel), are under the group of Achaemenid imperial coins. Since the preliminary studies of this collection were very necessary to introduce it to the scientific community, so an attempt was made to make a comparative study of the coins of the Mazandaran Museum with the most important coins found from the Achaemenid period. Coins were studied and documented by referring to reliable sources. In this regard, for comparative studies based on comparison, the characteristics of coins including the appearance of persons on the coin, decorative motifs, Type of clothing and individual symptoms, with similar cases were considered. This almost tedious process eventually led to the creation of a framework for classifying the coins in question. Since the method of documenting these coins in the museum was limited to the initial recordings, due to the importance of the subject, we had the opportunity to conduct detailed studies to address the main questions and objectives of this study. The comparisons made on the coins of this collection confirmed their authenticity and attribution to the Achaemenid period, and the work of documenting showed the difference in their minting.At first, all the study documents, including the history and economic system of the Achaemenid kings, as well as sources about their cultural works, such as reliefs and seals, were collected. The oxide-coated sample was then purged. The oxide layer was then removed from the surface of a number of coins. After this step, the weight of the coins was measured with a digital scale and their diameter and thickness were measured with a caliper. In the next step, the back and front of the coins were photographed with a digital camera and scanner, and then they were technically drawn manually with the help of a computer. If the coin shapes were not obvious due to wear and tear, clear images were created with the help of Photoshop and inverter software for more accurate design. (Figure‌1). These coins are very simple and the main focus is on the image of the king. The king is armed with a bow, spear or dagger in these coins. With the exception of rare cases, there are depressions on the back of the coins. Sometimes signs and symbols are engraved on the back and on the coins (Figure 8).Achaemenid coins, while simple and similar, have a great variety. Different sources have dealt with their different types and forms as much as possible, but considering that a number of coins in the collection of the Mazandaran Museum in the city of Sari did not have known and completely similar examples, Therefore, they were studied, separated and compared with samples that had the least details in common. From the studies and comparisons made with the samples of other Achaemenid coins, results were obtained that created suitable grounds for identifying and classifying the coins of the Mazandaran Museum. Summary table attached, Comparison of Achaemenid coins of the collection with other coins discovered (Table 1). According to this research, 240 coins belonging to Achaemenid kings have been identified. Recognition of the amount and purity of coins, which is a good criterion for determining the authenticity of coins, was not tested in this study, but the weight of coins, which is usually the standard for mints, was tested. The weight of coins of Mazandaran collection is determined with an average of about 5.60 grams, which is the standard weight of Achaemenid coins. The results of studies have shown that among this collection, there are coins that are similar to known examples. Also, there are coins that do not have similar patterns. This study provided an opportunity to examine the details of the image of coins and compare them with other samples, to classify them and attribute them to one of the kings who owned the coin. shekel coins have a great variety in terms of the image. In other words, the coin of a king has been in different details, which has created different types. The reason for this diversity may have been the existence of multiple mints or the lack of oversight of coin makers. A number of these different species have been identified and introduced in the study collection in Mazandaran Museum One of the reasons for the value of the silver coins studied is that they are a collection. This collection, as a time capsule, introduces a time range with a specific beginning and end. In total, the coins of the seven kings have been identified from the coin-owning kings in this period. In this collection, from Darius I, which basically has three species, one species (Figure 8), from Xerxes, which has two different species, one species (Figure 11), from Artaxerxes I (Figure 14), Darius II (Figure 16) and Young Cyrus, one species (Figure 18), from Artaxerxes II, three species (Figure 22, 23, 24) and in Finally, two types of coins have been identified from Artaxerxes III (Figure 25, 26). According to the information obtained, the period of the study complex was related to the years 522 to 338 BC, which covers about 184 years of the Achaemenid Empire.

Abstract  Corrals are distinctive types of traditional architecture in Iran which can be categorized into two groups: free standing spaces and troglodytic spaces. In 2018, a number of troglodytic spaces were first identified by the present author in the village of Baba located in the mountainous region of Tarom-e Sofla in Qazvin Province. In the valley and on the cliff slopes of the village of Baba, there are five troglodytic spaces which have been created in a short distance from each other and are aligned in almost the same direction. Their architectural structure is similar and includes a corridor, a low-ceiling entrance, and a large rectangular room spanned with a barrel vault. In only one of these spaces, there is a small room next to the large room. While the entranceway is built of flat stone, other spaces are hand-crafted. In addition, there are two structures which are interconnected through a short corridor next to the entrance, and the other structures are independent of each other. The rooms can be accessed only through the entrance. They are free of any apertures for lightning. Along the walls and at the corners of the rooms, logs and cavities have been carved. There are also remnants of stone raised platforms along the walls of the rooms. The present study attempts to introduce these newly found features in a descriptive and analytical fashion and determine their chronology and function. Based on a comparative study of architectural style and archaeological evidence, the author believes that the architectural complex of Baba village used to serve as corrals to keep livestock in shelter during winters. The results of the present study can make a significant contribution to our understanding of the traditional architectural patterns in the history of village architecture, ethnoarchaeology, and other related fields of social studies and humanities.
Troglodytic living spaces are a group of little-understood troglodytic architecture. Troglodytic living spaces that are built to keep livestock, known as corrals or animal slums, play an important role in the livelihood of villagers. The importance and diversity of these spaces in the culture of rural architecture of Iran are hardly disputable. However, they have not yet been paid the due scholarly attention they deserve. Livestock spaces are created independently outside a village or in connection with the residential area of ​​the village. The collection of Baba village handicrafts (Figure.1-2) is a valuable case in point that shows aspects of the rural handicraft architecture tradition. Also, given the fact that the livelihood of the villagers relied on livestock and livestock products, any endeavor to build livestock spaces was highly appreciated. Providing a suitable environment with hygienic conditions has been directly related to maintaining animal health and the cycle of livestock products. These spaces are valuable evidence of the architectural experiences of our ancestors in their confrontation with an ecosystem, which have survived for a long time until at least the last hundred years and have played a role in the economic, social and cultural life of villages. Contemporary developments have led humans to distance themselves from indigenous patterns and turn to new patterns. Sustaining the values ​​of ancient architecture requires knowledge of the principles based on which indigenous architecture was formed and its local values (Sartipipour, 2013: 26). Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of rural issues and paying attention to biological patterns in the rural environment have an effective role in the sustainable future of the village (Rezvani & Rahbari, 2016: 25-6).
This study is the first attempt in the literature to introduce the troglodytic collection of the village of Baba (Figure.3) in Tarom-e Sofla region as a biological experience in rural ecology. Although from the 1980s to the present, the Building and Housing Research Center and the Housing Foundation of the Islamic Revolution have provided a macro level typology of rural housing in the provinces of Iran, few, if any independent detailed studies have so far been conducted on this topic.
 It commits itself to examining how this type of architecture was created, what its main features are, what the use and construction time of the collection of handicrafts are, and what their status is within the culture of rural architecture.
This study rests upon the hypothesis that there is a common pattern in the architectural style of the handicrafts in the mountainous areas and that of cold rural areas. The architectural plan and structure of troglodytic spaces of the village of Baba (Figure.4-26) are closely similar to those of other mountainous areas in Iran such as Kharqan Qazvin (Maraghi & Parhizkari, 2015), Vafs Komijan and Kandovan (Homayoun, 1977) and Meymand (Homayoun, 1973), (Figure.27-30) and their formation is influenced by environmental and geographical factors. The study is aimed to look for the commonalities and differences in the architecture of troglodytic village of Baba and rural architecture. The architecture of the village can be considered as a new example of animal spaces in Iran, which will be described and analyzed in this paper.
Adopting a descriptive-analytical methodology, the present study was an attempt to describe the architectural features of this complex through documents, field survey, and comparative analysis.
 Troglodytic architecture is the result of human interaction with the natural environment. Examination of known evidence shows that it had been widespread in Iran. Rural architecture is a manifestation of the livelihood of rural communities. The use of livestock spaces indicates the reliance of the villagers’ livelihood on livestock. Creating cages in the form of hand-held spaces is a model of traditional rural architecture in areas with cold climates. This common practice in different parts of Iran is a function of local and indigenous characteristics, but despite social and cultural differences, common executive methods have been used in their construction. In terms of architectural typology, the handicrafts of the village of Baba can be categorized as troglodytic mountain caves. These structures are formed by digging a sandstone bed. Their outline and spatial organization are similar to those in other areas. It seems that the history of the construction of these structures dates back to at least the Safavid period. Based on the study of troglodytic cages, which are examined as an indicator in this article, they can be divided into mountainous and plain spaces. Mountain caves usually lack a clear geometric order and are formed on the basis of the earth's bed. Plain cages, on the other hand, are more orderly and have good ventilation and light. Their access path is designed in a way to create temperature balance. The division of the interior space to separate young animals is seen only in the example of Baba cages. In terms of material and structure, the pits are dug in the bed of sandstones, volcanic rocks, dense and compacted clay, and conglomerate rocks so that they can have high durability and be less prone to degradation over time. In terms of location, the mountain caves are organized individually below or next to the houses or in a centralized and grouped manner along the edges of the textures. Cages built in a residential space have a separate entrance (Kandovan Figure.29) or a common entrance shared with humans (Meymand Figure.30). The number and size of cages depend on the number of livestock. They are located in such a way that they are not in the path of floods and are created under the protection of natural forces. In terms of their use, livestock spaces are classified into two groups: winter and summer cages. Winter pens are created in the village while summer pens are made outside the pastures and are used seasonally. Paying attention to the body and function of troglodytic cages will provide a better understanding of the traditions of rural architecture and the system that governs them, which represent an efficient model and the wise experiences that have led to the development and prosperity of the village.

Abstract Archaeological excavations in the Little Zab river in the areas of GirdiAshoan, Barveh, Bardeh Zard and Akhoran, in order to identify the cultural sequence of Zab, were carried out over four Seasons, which led to the identification of the Chalcolithic and Bronze Age. The Zab area is one of the areas where Archeological research has been conducted infrequently, so there is no information about its cultural sequence. In the studies of the Northwestern Iran, new excavations in the Zab basin have completed the knowledge and Chronology of the region.Hasanlu VII, is of great importance in this region, but the period has been given relatively little attention. Results of Archaeological excavations show that the site is possibly the most important Early Bronze Age settlement in the region and the duration of occupation, as evidenced by a depth of deposit of 8 meters. The settlement manifests strong parallels with
other parts of northwest Iran, especially Hasanlu VIIA and GirdiHasan Ali. In Hasanlu VI ,The painted ware or the Urmia type pottery became widespread in the Middle Bronze Age areas of North Western. This tepe is one of various settlements formed there in different prehistoric periods.The excavations of this tepe led to the identification of the Middle Bronze Age settlement and a burial ground. Also, the exploration of the site made visible its cultural attachment with the Urmia Lake Basin and influences from the Khabur culture of Mesopotamia. Generally The results obtained indicate Hasanlu VIII,VII ,VI in zab basin.