At the Naqsh-e Rostam necropolis in Iran, a monumental rock relief immortalizes one of the most dramatic moments in Roman-Persian history: Emperor Valerian’s capture and Emperor Philip the Arab’s submission to Sᴀssanian King Shapur I (r. 240–270 CE). This carving is not just art—it’s a propaganda masterpiece celebrating Persia’s greatest victory over Rome.

🎨 Scene Breakdown: The Rock Relief

1. Shapur I: Towering on horseback, the Persian king wears his crown and armor, gripping Valerian’s wrist in a gesture of total dominance.

2. Valerian: The captured Roman emperor stands beside Shapur’s horse, his hands bound, head bowed—the only Roman emperor ever taken prisoner in battle.

3. Philip the Arab: Kneeling before Shapur, offering tribute (likely the 500,000 gold denarii ransom paid after Rome’s defeat at Misiche in 244 CE).

4. Symbolism:

   • Shapur’s horse tramples a fallen Roman soldier (possibly Emperor Gordian III, who died mysteriously during the same war).

   • The size hierarchy (Shapur > Valerian > Philip) visually declares Persia’s supremacy.

⚔️ Historical Context: Rome’s Worst Defeat

• Battle of Edessa (260 CE): Valerian’s entire army was annihilated or captured by Shapur’s forces.

• Aftermath:

  • Valerian died in captivity—myths claim he was used as a footstool or skinned alive.

  • Philip’s humiliation forced Rome into a shameful peace, paying Persia for decades.

• Sᴀssanian Boast: The relief is part of a series at Naqsh-e Rostam showing Shapur’s victories over three Roman emperors (Gordian III, Philip, Valerian).

🏛️ Why This Relief Matters

• Psychological Warfare: Carved along the Royal Road, it reminded travelers of Persia’s power.

• Unique Depiction: No other Roman emperor was ever portrayed so degraded in art.

• Legacy: Inspired later Persian kings to mimic Shapur’s pose in their own victory monuments.

📍 Visiting Naqsh-e Rostam

• Located near Persepolis, the site also hosts Achaemenid tombs (e.g., Darius I) and Zoroastrian fire altars.

• Fun Fact: A similar Shapur-Valerian scene exists at Bishapur, with more Roman soldiers groveling.