Sculpting paths: the interaction of architecture and architectural reliefs at Parsa and on the Athenian Akropolis

Through the long-fifth century, both Parsa (Persepolis) and the Akropolis develop increasingly coherent site-planning: both use sequences of staircases and/or increasing elevation to create an experience of linear ascent, in both cases combined with dense relief sculpture. This project starts from the idea that the architectural sculpture at Parsa, unlike that of the contemporary Akropolis, is more concerned with describing the paths through the site than with iconographic meaning. Considering both the ‘final’ versions of the complexes and their ‘shadow’ precursors – Darius’ Parsa and the Early Democratic Akropolis – it considers the development of this difference on the sites and whether it is best understood through artistic influences or the different political needs of these two monumental centres.