Rudkhan Castle was a military fortress built during the Sasanian Empire (224- 651 AD) to defend the northern part of the country against Arab invaders. Nevertheless, it mostly served as a base for uprisings and riots against the central power. Although it went through severe violence in history, it is one of the best well-preserved fortresses in Iran.
This fascinating brick and stone castle consists of a water reservoir, twelve gates, a prison, 42 still intact watchtowers, housings, and the king’s quarters. At the highest point of the castle, there are the king’s quarters. It has two sections as one royal residence for the king and his family, and another residence for soldiers and military gatherings. The main military activities took place on the east side of the fortress which was a little smaller.
The 1550 meters long walls of the Rudkhan Castle stand 750 meters above sea level. As there are 935 steps leading to the castle it was also called “the Castle of Thousand Steps.”
