The tomb of Cyrus was located 2/3 mile (1 km) south-west of the palaces at Pasargadae and was once surrounded by gardens. Standing 33 ft (10 m) high, it was built in white limestone and was made according to the Ionic architectural style. A small entrance leads to the inner chamber where the golden sarcophagus of Cyrus was once located.
Classical writers noted that 'magi' (priests) offered daily sacrifices of sheep and monthly sacrifices of horses at the tomb.
It once bore the inscription 'Mortal! I am Cyrus, son of Cambyses, who founded the Persian Empire, and was Lord of Asia. Grudge me not, then, my monument.'
Alexander the Great, who was an admirer of Cyrus, visited the tomb during his conquest of the Persian Empire.
