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Shazand or Kay Khosrow (Keykhosro) Cave is an important Zoroastrian site 35 kilometers southwest of Arak city. The entrance of the cave opens in the west. Shazand consists of an 18-meter corridor, which is 6 meters wide and 3 meters high.

The cave, which is located at an altitude of 2,900 meters, is believed to be where Kia Khosrow, the righteous Kiani King disappeared from sight. Kianian are the second Aryan dynasty after the Pishdadian in Persian folklore and Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh (Book of Kings). Kianian kings are the heroes of the Avesta (Zoroastrian sacred text) and Zarathustra is said to have preached during the reign of a Kiani king. 

It is said that after ruling for 60 years, Kia Khosrow gave away his wealth and appointed an heir before coming to this cave to pray only to never be seen again. It is believed that Kia Khosrow is alive and will return at the end of time. Hence, the name of the cave Shazand is believed to be the combination of Shah and Zendeh meaning ‘king’ and ‘alive.’

The names of Persian heroes are inscribed inside the cave and there is a spring near it where pilgrims drink its water for blessing. 

Shazand or Kay Khosrow (Keykhosro) Cave

  • Address

    35 kilometers southwest of Arak