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.
A brief summary to Taq Kisra
- 3HVJ+G64, Madain, Babylon Governorate, IQ
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy softer lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking to explore the site fully.
- Bring water and snacks, as amenities may be limited nearby, ensuring you stay refreshed during your visit.
- Consider hiring a local guide who can provide detailed historical context and enrich your experience of the site.
- Respect the site and its history by avoiding climbing on the ruins and following any posted guidelines.
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.
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