All the remnants of the Achaemenid dynasty attest to the indisputable power and credibility of this vast empire. They were world rulers, who governed a vast territory. The pillars and ruins of Persepolis palaces are proof of the conspicuous and outstanding manifestation of the Achaemenid power. But, from all these, the relic showing three spearmen from the never-dying army, may be greater and better than any other surviving work of the Achaemenids in terms of discipline and competence. It exposes the belicosity of this vast kingdom.
The 10,000 never-dying guards were a selected and vanguard force in the Achaemenid army. Their primary responsibility was to protect the king’s life, making them the king’s bodyguards. They also served as the vanguards of the army and fought bravely in battles. In the ancient world, there was no other force known to be as capable as the never-dying guards force in combat and military discipline. This force was called “never dying” because if a member of this army was killed in battle another soldier with equal military skills would immediately replace him. This ensured that the number of the “never-dying” guards never changed.
In the ancient world, the Immortal Guard was known as “Invincible”. Herodotus, the Greek historian, has mentioned the ability and organization of the Immortal Guard, and other historians such as Xenophon have praised the Immortal Guard and have spoken passionately about the history of this guard. The 10,000 Immortal Corps was first established during the time of Cyrus the Great and then served in the Iranian army and wars during other periods of the Achaemenid Empire until the end of this government. They were chosen from prominent Iranian families and had to go through special training.
The ancient three-spear engraving of Berlin shows a vivid and detailed image, allowing us to understand what this elite group was like and the characteristics of their weapons and clothing. The uniform of these three soldiers of the “never-dying” guards, is bright and impressing in stature and color. They are staring straight ahead, holding a long spear with both hands, and carrying a bow and arrow on their backs. The long sleeves of their attire are designed to allow freedom of movement for their hands. The headbands on their foreheads also have a beautiful effect, and the long hair on their heads and faces adds to the intimidating presence they exude. All three of them are standing in a line, one behind the other, firmly planting their feet on the ground. The glazed bricks behind them, serving as the background, enhance the beauty of these individuals from the Achaemenid Immortal Guard.
The figure of three spearmen was found, among archeological discovery, in apadana palace in Susa, in Khuzestan province. It was immediately taken to Europe and placed in the Pergamon museum in the city of Berlin, where it is now on display for visitors. This ancient village is one of the most fruitful museums in the world, attracting over one million visitors every year. ‘This museum is one of the most informative museums in the world, Greece, Egypt, and Babylon, which are considered rare in their splendor and value. The image of the three spearmen of the Immortal Guard may be considered one of the most beautiful works in the Pergamon museum in Berlin.
