XERXES - The Animals of Persia

The Animals of Persia

It is of brief note of the reader’s interest in the animals of Persia. It is known that there are few of the more exotic animals original to the region. The large cats were long expired before even the father of the father of Cyrus was conceived.

The stories of old included the lion. The tiger. The panther. These animals survived to the east and the southwest. For the protection of their animals and their families, the nomads of the pre Persian era had whittled and wafted the feline enemies into regional extinction.

When Persia began to rise from these nomadic regions, Cyrus was gifted these large cats on many occasions. These cats were cared for at the palace by the bravest of men. When cubs were produced, these were trained with love and tenderness and thus became revered residents of every Persian palace. It was not unusual to see a son or daughter of Cyrus and later Darius escorted by a lioness or a panther while walking the streets.

Fish were another anthology to Persia. It was the variety of the bright oranges and the vibrant blues and yellows that paid homage to the new homeland. Canals and ponds were filled with fish from the surrounding kingdoms, often gifts paying homage to Cyrus and his merciful rule.

The birds were a sight to behold. In addition to the great Asian Peacock, there were long legged white cranes from the west, short legged blue cranes from the east, and pink flamingos from the north. Every songbird made homes in the grand gardens eating to their fill the lush insects thriving on well tended greenery. All birds of prey were revered.. eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls graced the skies of the cities and surrounding forests.

The horses of Persia were bred for stability and beauty and grace. White on white. Black on black. And black on chestnut were the featured favorites. Great care was taken to breed and raise them. Barns dotted fertile meadows on the edges of a town. Given prominence in the Persian culture. Coveted by and traded with the surrounding Kingdoms east and west.

Personal pets were an anomaly. Occasionally a merchant used a monkey or a parrot to attract his buyers. Domesticated felines and canines were unknown in the common household yet canines were abundant throughout the palaces.

Animals throughout Persia were well tended. Relied upon and respected for their contributions to the Kingdom. Service and beauty both recognized and acknowledged.

XERXES - The Heart of Babylon

Artist rendition of the hanging gardens of Babylon

The Heart of Babylon

Great care will be taken with this dialogue. The heart of Babylon began centuries before Persia was created. In many different Epochs as well. Babylon was revered for her beauty and luster in the fertile river valley. It is true and accurate that the landscaping in the valley was admired by other Kingdoms far and near.

Terraces were built along the steep banks of the river. Terraces were also built along the perimeter of the great city. Lush foliage was transplanted. Flowering vines, fruiting shrubs and trees, and all manner of plants were included. Palisades were whitewashed and provided an elegant anchor for the greenery. Known to history as the Hanging Gardens, these lush and vibrant landscapes were exquisite to behold.

While Babylon was known for her gardens. She was known even more for her beautiful daughters. The women of Babylon were elegant and exotic. Protected as any high treasure by all. They were educated in arts and letters. Given roles in trade and general commerce if desired. Given in marriage only when it was a mutual decision.

Babylon was desired by many Kingdoms for many reasons. Cyrus wanted the jewel to be a Nation of Persia. He devised the strategy to take the impenetrable city. His goal was achieved without loss of life. Eventually Babylonians welcomed the new leadership and were welcomed into Persia with warm hearts. Many, many unions were made and the beauty of Babylon was handed down through the lineages of Persians.

It is true and accurate that Cyrus freed the many slaves of many different cultures. Hebrew and African amoung them. All permitted to leave the City and return to their own homelands. This caused initial grief and chaos in the City. Once it was known that Persians themselves would fill the roles and create a better democracy for all, the Babylonians were in agreement.

Babylon's great architecture and landscaping became a foundation and a template for future developing areas. Painstakingly copied in small regions of fertile river valleys within mountain ranges of the region.

But the complete Heart of Babylon. Her lush and vibrant gardens and incomparable daughters would not be found anywhere else ever again. Thus giving Babylon a place in the History of all civilization.

XERXES - Persepolis - the Gate of the People

Entrance to the Gate of Nations

Persepolis - the Gate of the People

It is true and accurate that Persia was a kingdom of many Nations. Some of these Nations came to Persia in request of trade or support or protection. Some Nations encroached on Persia and received due recompense as well as induction into Persia.

Under Cyrus Persia was united in glory and mercy. He was a just ruler with a heart and learned equally from those neighboring kings who sought his counsel. My father Darius fell swiftly into the footsteps of Cyrus through the great council from my Mother Atossa. Who better to know the heart of Cyrus than his daughter. Under Darius and Atossa Persia expanded and thrived.

Darius recognized the need for structure and governance in this expanding kingdom. Persepolis was begun as a capital under the direction of Cyrus. Three generations later my sons and I continued this endeavour. But it was Darius who commanded the construction of the greatest portion of this great city.

In great anticipation I was tasked with the design and construction of a ceremonial hall. One that served as a gateway to the palaces. A gallery of all Nations with space to display the best of the best that was produced in each nation. Pottery, paintings, mosaics, instruments, textiles, and even plants.

Construction of this grand structure began in the Spring. With the dedication of hundreds of hands and nearly a thousand craftsmen the Hall was completed before winter. It is true and accurate that it was dedicated as the Gate of all Nations.

It is more accurate to share that this Hall was the Gate of all peoples. Welcoming benches lined with soft cushions of the finest cotton and silk lined the interior walls. Large, hand carved wooden benches were placed throughout to encourage conversations and to provide edges to a large walkway along the walls.. In the center there were tables with displays of arts and crafts. Any one could bring a piece into this Hall and display it for all Nations of Persia to admire. The Hall was not limited to Persian access. It was a welcoming entry to the dignitaries and royalty from kingdoms both east and west of Persia. It was a jewel in the Persian crown.

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