Al-Mada'in Park
Al-Mada'in Park: A Babylonian Oasis
Taq Kisra: Archway to a Lost Empire
Explore Taq Kisra, the majestic archway of Ctesiphon, a window into the glorious Sasanian Empire and ancient Mesopotamian history.
Taq Kisra, also known as the Arch of Ctesiphon, is the last vestige of the ancient Persian capital of Ctesiphon, near modern-day Salman Pak, Iraq. This Sasanian-era monument features the second-largest single-span brick vault in the world and stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Sasanian Empire.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Taq Kisra
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
3HVJ+G64, Madain, Babylon Governorate, IQ
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Getting There
Car
From Baghdad, take the Baghdad-Kut highway south. Continue past Kut to the town of Salman Pak. Follow signs for Taq Kisra, approximately 5 kilometers west of Salman Pak. The drive is about 35 km and takes around 34 minutes. Parking is available near the site. Expect to pay around $2-3 for the drive.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Baghdad. A taxi to Taq Kisra takes approximately 34 minutes. Negotiate the fare in advance. Expect to pay between $65-80 for a one-way trip from Baghdad.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy softer lighting for photography.
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Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking to explore the site fully.
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Bring water and snacks, as amenities may be limited nearby, ensuring you stay refreshed during your visit.
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Consider hiring a local guide who can provide detailed historical context and enrich your experience of the site.
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Respect the site and its history by avoiding climbing on the ruins and following any posted guidelines.
Discover more about Taq Kisra
Taq Kisra, meaning the Iwan of Khosrow, is the sole remaining structure of Ctesiphon, the ancient capital of the Parthian and Sasanian Empires. Located approximately 40 km southeast of Baghdad, this imposing archway once served as the facade of the main palace. The exact construction date is debated, with some historians attributing it to the reign of Shapur I (242-272 CE) and others to Anushiruwan the Just (Khosrow I) around 540 AD.
The arch itself is a marvel of Sasanian architecture, standing approximately 37 meters high and stretching 26 meters wide. Constructed from baked bricks without modern reinforcement, it held the record for the largest man-made, free-standing vault until modern times. The archway is believed to have been the entrance to the throne room or a grand portico within the vast royal palace.
Over the centuries, Taq Kisra has endured numerous challenges, including the Arab conquest in 637 CE, during which it was briefly used as a mosque. In the 10th century, bricks from the palace were repurposed for the Taj Palace in Baghdad. Despite restoration efforts, including a partial reconstruction in the 1980s, a section of the arch collapsed in 2019. Today, Taq Kisra remains an iconic symbol of Iraq's rich cultural heritage, drawing visitors to marvel at its grandeur and historical significance.
A brief summary to Taq Kisra
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