Capture of Roman Emperor by Shapur, Khordad 1. On this day in year 819 of the Shahanshahi calendar, Shapur I, the Sasanian king, succeeded in capturing the Roman Emperor Valerian during the Battle of Edessa. This event occurred amid the prolonged wars between Iran and Rome and is considered a turning point in the history of both empires. The Roman army suffered a heavy defeat, with thousands of Roman soldiers taken prisoner. Valerian was the first Roman emperor to be captured alive by an enemy on the battlefield. After his capture, he was brought to Iran and remained in captivity until his death. Shapur I ordered a relief depicting this victory to be carved at Naqsh-e Rustam, which still survives today. This event had significant political and psychological effects on both empires and is remembered in Iranian history as one of the major victories of the Sasanian era. In the Shahanshahi calendar, this day is dedicated to commemorating this historical occurrence and is regarded as a symbol of ancient Iranian authority. This observance was added to the Shahanshahi calendar to honor this victory and to highlight Iran's role in regional developments during the Sasanian period.
