Tehran
Thousands of Iranians gathered in central Tehran’s Enghelab Square on Friday to witness the unveiling of a grand monument commemorating an ancient Persian triumph over foreign invaders a powerful symbol of national pride and defiance following Iran’s recent 12 day war with Isra-el.
The new statue depicts the Sasanian king Shapur I on horseback towering over the captured Roman Emperor Valerian, a moment from the 3rd century AD that marks one of Persia’s greatest historical victories. Towering above them is a striking sculpture of a Persian warrior and a modern Iranian soldier holding the same spear, symbolizing the nation’s enduring strength and unity. Etched on their shields are the words: “You will kneel before Iran again.”
Speaking to AFP, Fatemeh Roshanbakhsh, a psychologist attending the ceremony, said, “History has shown that aggressors against Iran always face defeat. This monument is a reminder of our resilience.”
The monument, inspired by an ancient stone engraving in southern Iran, attracted crowds who waved flags and cheered under banners of Iran’s historical and modern heroes. Among them were portraits of fallen military figures, including General Qasem Soleimani and Amirali Hajizadeh, both hailed as defenders of Iran.
In June, Israel launched a large-scale military campaign against Iran, reportedly killing more than a thousand people. Tehran retaliated with missile and drone strikes that left dozens dead in Israel.
Student Moein, 21, who attended the unveiling, said events like these “boost people’s morale” and remind Iranians of their strength through time. “Our nation has always been and will always be victorious,” he added.
Giant banners at the square featured legendary Persian heroes such as Rostam from the epic Shahnameh (Book of Kings), alongside modern depictions of Iran’s military confrontations, including the 2016 incident when Iran’s Revolutionary Guards seized a U.S. Navy vessel for allegedly entering Iranian waters.
According to Davood Goodarzi of Tehran Municipality, the project was created under the guidance of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Initially placed in Enghelab Square, the statue will later be moved to a major city entrance, visible to foreign diplomats and tourists.
The event also featured five popular Iranian pop singers performing free concerts to lift public spirits. “I came for the good vibes and to enjoy the music,” said attendee Sajad Pezeshkian, smiling amid the patriotic celebrations.
With its blend of history, heroism, and modern pride, the monument stands as both a tribute to Iran’s glorious past and a statement of resilience to its present day adversaries.
