Apadana
Architecture
Apadana is a large hypostyle hall, a type of building invented by the ancient Persians. The term is used to denote a monumental building which served as an audience hall. The name has its roots in the Old Persian term 'Apadāna' which means 'unprotected' or 'uncovered'. This type of architecture was used in the construction of palaces and was a common feature in the Achaemenid style of architecture. The Apadana's architectural style is characterized by its grandeur and magnificence, with the use of large stone columns, intricate carvings, and vast open spaces.
Historical Significance
The most famous Apadana is the one found in Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. This Apadana was built by Darius the Great, but was not completed until the reign of his son Xerxes I. The Persepolis Apadana is the largest and most complex of all Apadana buildings, with its construction having taken nearly 30 years to complete. The Apadana at Persepolis was used for hosting grand receptions and festivals by the Persian Kings.
Architectural Features
The Apadana typically consists of a grand hall, with a central area that is open to the sky. This central area is surrounded by a series of columns, which support the roof. The columns are typically made of stone and are intricately carved with designs and motifs that depict the glory and power of the Persian Empire. The Apadana at Persepolis, for example, has reliefs depicting the Persian king, his courtiers, and representatives from the various nations under Persian control.
Influence on Later Architecture
The architectural style of the Apadana had a significant influence on later Persian architecture and can be seen in the design of many later Persian buildings. The use of large hypostyle halls became a common feature in Persian architecture, and the grandeur and magnificence of the Apadana became a benchmark for later Persian architects.