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The City That Was Reduced To Horrifying Towers of Heads
One of the strangest and most gruesome tales in history
In the 14th century, Timur (also known as Tamerlane) went on a terrifying rampage of conquest and destruction through Central Asia. His efforts would result in a short-lived empire that bore his name, and many consider him to be one of the greatest military minds in history. He also had a brutal streak. Timur, like many before him, was quick to show mercy to cities that surrendered but was ruthless in the face of resistance or opposition.
History is no stranger to brutality. It seems as though each new conqueror that appears out of the mists of time has a new way of showing their displeasure. Timur had the habit of building towers of heads over the ruins of cities that defied him. One such example, at the city of Isfahan, highlights Timur’s fondness for this show of strength.
The Siege of Isfahan
Isfahan was one of the principal cities of the Muzaffarid Kingdom. In the late 14th century, Timur approached the city with his armies. He knew that in order to annex the kingdom, he needed to seize both of its capitals. His goal was to take the capitals intact so he could use them as administrative centers to collect taxes and integrate the kingdom into his burgeoning empire.
