The Structure and Function of the Border Town of Antioch in the Relations between Rome and Persia in the Sassanid Era

Due to its geopolitical position، the city of Antioch had always been the scene of confrontation and tension between the great powers of the ancient era since its establishment in the Seleucid era until the late Sassanid era. The findings of this research indicate that the structure of Antioch was checkered in pattern and it derived its political، economic، commercial، religious and military significance from its geopolitical position. Romans used this city as their headquarters and recruiting post for their forces. Antioch was located along the Silk Road and was thus considerably important for the Sassanid and the Romans. Furthermore، as one of the important Christian cities، Antioch played a major role in the propagation of Christianity in the East. By conquering this city، the Sassanid drew nearer to strategies of its founder (securing the Achaemenid territories). Thus، they attempted to create fire temples after conquering the border town of Antioch as part of their territories. Apart from enjoying the advantages of being located on the Silk Road، the conquering of Antioch was also advantageous to the two ancient powers in terms of economy and commerce having immense spoils and productive forces. Analyzing the structure and function of the ancient city of Antioch and its important aspects sheds light over a part of the history of relations between Persia and Rome and their border conflicts and the potential impact of these confrontations on the domestic development of these rival powers. Therefore، given its great significance، the present paper attempts to investigate the structure and function of Antioch in the Sassanid and Roman era employing a descriptive survey method of analysis.