The Role of "Geography" in the Identity of the Sassanid Era

Among myriads of factors in shaping Iranian identity, they regarded geography as an influential element in differentiating Iranians from other regions of the world. The Sassanid Politico-religious regime focused on geography and geographical identity and used it to their benefits since they had realized its role in uniting people and establishing the political system. In this regard, the name of "Iran" gained a conceptual and regional status and was reflected in the texts of the period. The Sassanid named their colonized regions "Iranshahr" and almost successfully tried to spread and confirm the concept in the society as well. In line with accomplishing such goal, they paid much attention to border affairs too. The increasing importance of the margrave position is a direct result of the same perspective. This article examines the geographical identity of the Sassanid era.