Renowned for its Persian lyrics, roses, cypresses and nightingales, Shiraz is the capital of the southern province of Fars and one of Iran’s major highlights. The city has several important landmarks including: the 18th century Vakil bazaar, the Arg-e-Karim Khan, which resembles a medieval fortress, the Qajar period Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque with its beautiful tile work, the lovely mirrored Naranjestan House, and its gardens – each one with a richly decorated pavilion set amongst graceful cypress trees. Within the province of Fars are some of Iran’s most important archaeological sites. The splendour of the Palace of Persepolis is still evident today, despite the ravages of time and its torching by Alexander the Great in 330 B.C. Persepolis was the ceremonial capital of the ancient Achaemenian kings and is noted not only for its size, but also for the quality and beauty of its stone bas-reliefs which depict a fascinating range of subjects and provide a window on court life in an ancient Persian empire. Nearby at Naghsh-e-Rostam are a series of mighty royal Achaemenian rock-cut tombs and some of the greatest Sassanian rock reliefs ever created. At Parsargadae, 2 hours to the north of Shiraz, is the capital and last resting place of Cyrus the Great – founder of the Achaemenian dynasty. To the south and west of Shiraz are three important Sassanian sites. Bishapur built by Shapur 1 (241 – 273 A.D.), the second Sassanian king, is known for its temple dedicated to Anahita, mosaics, and rock reliefs commemorating Shapur’s victories over the Romans. Firuzabad is a city, a palace, and a fortress, created by Shapur’s father Ardashir to celebrate his defeat of the Parthian dynasty, and at Sarvestan are the domes of a fifth century building thought to be a hunting lodge or small palace built by Bahram V (420 – 440 A.D.). At least two full days are recommended to explore Shiraz and its environs.