Rabana-Merquly: a fortress in the kingdom of Adiabene in the Zagros Mountains

The mountain fortress of Rabana-Merquly was a major regional centre the Parthian period (first century BC) in Zagros Mountains Iraqi Kurdistan. iconography two rock-reliefs that show an unnamed ruler suggests association with vassal kingdom Adiabene. exceptional preservation fortress's stone walls, undamaged by later agriculture this highland location, provides almost complete example large, fortified site main intramural settlements. Through its ability to control surrounding landscape, highlights role client states on peripheries and Roman Empires illuminates practicalities territorial state authorities hinterland regions.