Iran Unveils Statue of Kneeling Roman Emperor Valerian
On Friday, Iran revealed a statue depicting Roman Emperor Valerian kneeling in submission before the ancient Persian King Shapur I, commemorating a military victory from the third century. The ceremony took place in Tehran’s Revolution (Enghelab) Square as part of a campaign called “Kneel before Iran.”
“The Valerian statue reflects a historical truth that Iran has been a land of resistance throughout history,” said Mehdi Mazhabi, head of Tehran's Municipal Beautification Organization. “By implementing this plan in Enghelab Square, we aim to forge a bond between this land's glorious past and its hopeful present.”
Following a ceasefire that ended a harsh 12-day war with Israel in June, Iranian authorities have emphasized nationalism and the glorification of Iran’s ancient history to foster unity. Previously, symbols of the pre-Islamic era were avoided by the Islamic theocracy.
Just days after the conflict, a mural appeared in Tehran’s Vanak Square showing Arash the archer firing arrows alongside modern ballistic missiles aimed at Israel.
Historical Background of the Statue
The statue commemorates the Battle of Edessa in 260 AD, during which Shapur I (240–270 AD), the second Sassanid king, decisively defeated Roman forces and captured Emperor Valerian. This defeat was one of Rome’s greatest military disasters.
The installation of the statue symbolizes a broader effort by Iranian leaders to connect contemporary nationalism with the country's ancient and resilient heritage.
Campaign and Nationalistic Focus
- The statue was unveiled as part of a campaign named “Kneel before Iran.”
- Nationalism and pride in pre-Islamic history are being used to unify the population after the June war.
- The campaign marks a shift from previously shunning pre-Islamic symbols toward embracing them.
This initiative highlights how Iran uses historical narratives to inspire current national identity and solidarity.
Author's summary: Iran's unveiling of a statue showing Roman Emperor Valerian kneeling before Persian King Shapur I reflects a deliberate nationalist effort to link modern identity with ancient Persian resilience after recent conflict.
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