# Shahdiz

- **Country:** Iran
- **Coordinates:** 32.596667, 51.643889
- **Location Text:** Nehbandan County

Shahdiz, also known as Dizkuh, was an ancient fortress situated approximately eight kilometers south of Isfahan, Iran, on a subpeak of Mount Soffeh. While historical accounts vary regarding its exact origins, with some attributing its construction to the Seljuk Sultan Malikshah, evidence suggests the site likely dates back to the pre-Islamic Sasanian period before being rebuilt by the Seljuqs. The structure served as a critical military installation guarding the strategic route leading to Isfahan, which functioned as the capital of the Seljuk Empire. Its commanding position made it a vital point of control for any power seeking to influence or defend the region.

The castle achieved significant historical fame during the 11th century when it became a stronghold for the Nizari Ismailis. Under the leadership of Ahmad ibn Abd al-Malik ibn Attash, who disguised himself as a schoolmaster to infiltrate the garrison, the Ismailis seized control of the fortress around the year 1100. This capture represented a major strategic victory, allowing the sect to collect taxes from nearby districts and reportedly convert thousands of locals. The fortress was subsequently re-fortified to align with other Ismaili castles in Persia, solidifying its role as a key headquarters in the region during a period of intense religious and political conflict.

The fate of Shahdiz was sealed in 1107 during a campaign led by the Seljuk Sultan Muhammad Tapar against the Nizari state. Following a notable siege, the fortress was captured and subsequently demolished to prevent its future use by opposing forces. Today, the site exists only as conspicuous and picturesque ruins. Although it is no longer an active military installation or open to the public as a formal museum, the remnants of Shahdiz remain a visible testament to the turbulent medieval history of central Persia and the once-powerful Nizari Ismaili presence near Isfahan.

![Photo of Shahdiz](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d1/%D9%86%D9%87%D8%A8%D9%86%D8%AF%D8%A7%D9%86.png)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shahdiz (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)