The Unknown Crypt of San Rossam on the Bank of the Jezman River in Kermanshah, Central Zagros, Iran

The San Rossam crypt is located in the Hozmanvand Gorge, on the west bank of the Jezman River, on the nomadic route that passes through this gorge. This nomadic route connects the northern plains, namely Halashi and Mayasht (Mahidasht), with the southern areas, namely Holeylan and neighboring areas, and is of strategic importance. San Rossam is a type of free crypt. This crypt has a rectangular cube shape and its entrance is facing north. The Jezman River flows from the south and behind it. This issue, along with other factors, such as the fact that it was created next to the nomadic route, makes its use as a tomb doubtful. According to its location, it probably has had other functions. Possibly, this crypt was a place for guarding, resting (like Taq-e Gara), and grain storage, or according to local narratives, it was a religious and ritual place. Some details of this crypt, such as the entrance shape, the cradle arch, and the construction method, are similar to some crypts. Besides, the method of removing the loose parts of the rock on the sides of the cellar is similar to the methods of separating stone blocks in the mines of this area and neighboring areas. These characteristics attribute the age of this crypt to the second half of the Parthian period.