Distribution of Achaemenid Period Settlements on the Southwest Iran-Khuzestan Ramhormoz Plain with Survey Data

The Ramhormoz region in south and southwest Iran its large-scale geography extends to the northern highlands of present-day modern Khuzestan. Despite significance for connection with Susa-Persopolis Road during Achaemenid period, did not attract archaeological attention until 1948s. Even brevity, results 1969 Wright-Carter survey showed that is promising shedding light on relation between lowlands Iran. As a result new data conducted under my supervision, characteristics settlements plain Southwest were reanalyzed. influence geographical factors such as presence large rivers fertile lands formation prosperity settlements, relations sedentary, rural, nomadic communities examined. It was thus revealed proximity commercial roads access water resources pasture main determinants distribution model settlements. Rich pastures nomads, potential irrigated agriculture settlers, communication routes provided advantages both lifestyles (Alizadeh, 1979). socio-political control settlement pattern organized by central political power Late Elamite Period continued period well. Therefore, more associated roads. When location their distance each other are examined, it seen frequency Susa-Persepolis Royal very high. Settlements located road within short distances other, which shows determining factor due socio-economic advantages. During previous while development slopes mountains edge plain, they mainly concentrated center plain. this size increased, indicative population growth period.