Discover Hegmataneh Hill: Ancient Ecbatana Unearthed

Hegmataneh Hill (Tappeh-ye Hegmatāneh) is an archaeological site in Hamedan that contains the remains of the ancient city of Ecbatana, the capital of the Median Empire dating back to 678 BCE. This sprawling historical complex offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into one of the oldest urban settlements in Iran and the ancient Near East. As you walk among the excavated ruins, you’re literally stepping through layers of history spanning the Median, Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanid periods.

Historical Significance

Ecbatana (later known as Hegmataneh) was founded as the capital of the Medes in the 7th century BCE. According to the Greek historian Herodotus, it was a magnificent city surrounded by seven concentric walls of different colors. When the Achaemenid Empire rose to power, Ecbatana became a summer capital for Persian kings and continued to serve as an important administrative center through subsequent empires. The site represents over 3,000 years of continuous habitation and stands as a testament to Iran’s ancient urban planning and architectural achievements.

Archaeological Features

• City Grid Layout: Excavations have revealed a sophisticated urban plan with a grid pattern of streets and alleyways, unusual for cities of this antiquity.
• Columned Halls: Remains of large columned halls that once supported wooden roofs, showing the architectural sophistication of the period.
• Water Channels: An advanced water management system with stone-lined channels running beneath the city streets.
• Defense Walls: Parts of the massive fortification walls that once surrounded the city, though not all seven rings described by Herodotus have been found.
• Residential Quarters: Foundations of residential buildings that provide insights into ancient daily life.
• Storage Areas: Large rooms that may have served as storage facilities for the royal treasury or food supplies.

The Museum

Adjacent to the archaeological site, the Hegmataneh Museum houses artifacts discovered during excavations:

• Pottery: A wide range of ceramic pieces spanning different historical periods.
• Architectural Elements: Stone capitals, columns, and decorative pieces from various buildings.
• Coins: Currency from different empires that controlled the region over the centuries.
• Tools and Weapons: Everyday implements and military equipment used by ancient residents.
• Scale Models: Reconstructions showing how Ecbatana might have appeared during its heyday.
• Educational Displays: Informational exhibits explaining the historical context and significance of the site.

Visiting Experience

When exploring Hegmataneh Hill, visitors can:

• Walk along ancient street grids that have been excavated and preserved
• Observe the different layers of construction representing various historical periods
• Learn about archaeological techniques through onsite explanations of the excavation process
• Enjoy panoramic views of modern Hamedan from elevated sections of the site
• Appreciate the strategic location that made this spot attractive to ancient rulers

Ongoing Archaeology

Hegmataneh continues to be an active archaeological site with ongoing excavations and research. Depending on when you visit, you might observe archaeologists at work uncovering new sections of the ancient city. Only a portion of the vast historical complex has been excavated, with much still waiting to be discovered beneath modern Hamedan.

Best Time to Visit

The archaeological site is best visited during spring (April-June) or early autumn (September-October) when temperatures are pleasant for outdoor exploration. The site is primarily outdoors, so avoiding extreme weather conditions will make for a more enjoyable experience. Morning visits provide better lighting for photography of the ruins.

Visitor Tips

• Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore both the archaeological site and the museum.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection, as much of the site is exposed to the elements.
• Consider hiring a knowledgeable guide who can explain the historical context and identify different architectural periods.
• Bring water, especially during warmer months, as exploring the extensive site can be tiring.
• Photography is generally permitted throughout the site but may be restricted for certain museum exhibits.
• Visit the museum first to gain context before exploring the archaeological remains.

Nearby Attractions

• Tomb of Esther and Mordechai: An important Jewish pilgrimage site located in the city center.
• Stone Lion: An ancient statue dating from the Hellenistic period, a symbol of Hamedan.
• Tomb of Avicenna: Monument to the famous Persian polymath, located a short distance away.
• Ganjnameh Inscriptions: Ancient rock inscriptions from the Achaemenid period, located in the mountains outside Hamedan.