The Sassanian Empire was a powerful Persian state that existed from 224 to 651 CE. It was founded by Ardashir I after defeating the Parthian Empire. The Sassanian Empire is known for its rich culture, advancements in art, architecture, and science, as well as its strong Zoroastrian religious beliefs. It served as a major rival to the Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire. At its height, the Sassanian Empire stretched from the eastern Mediterranean to the Indus River. The empire was famous for its impressive cities, such as Ctesiphon, and its contributions to trade along the Silk Road. The Sassanian period is often regarded as a golden age of Persian civilization