Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
About 2,500 years ago, subjects of the empire (from 28 nations) would pass in “we're not
worthy”-style through the Nations' Gate, bearing gifts for the “King of Kings.”
The approach to this awe-inspiring sight is marred by a vast and ugly tarmac with
1970s-era parking lot light poles. This paved hodgepodge is a reminder of another mega-
lomaniac ruler. In 1971, the Shah threw a bash with unprecedented extravagance to cel-
ebrate the 2,500-year anniversary of the Persian Empire—and to remind the world that he
was the latest in a long string of great kings who ruled Persia with the omnipotence of a
modern-day Xerxes or Darius. The Shah flew in dignitaries from all over the world, along
with dinner from Maxim's in Paris, one of the finest restaurants in Europe. Iranian histor-
ians consider this arrogant display of imperial wealth and Western decadence—which so
offended his poverty-stricken subjects—the beginning of the end for the Shah. Within a
decade, he was gone and Khomeini was in. It's my hunch that the ugly asphalt remains of
the Shah's party are left here so visiting locals can remember who their Revolution over-
threw.
