Tower Of Silence
The "Tower of Silence," also known as a Dakhma, is a traditional Zoroastrian structure used for the exposure of the dead. Located on elevated ground, these towers allow vultures to consume the bodies, which aligns with Zoroastrian beliefs about purity and the afterlife. This practice prevents the contamination of the earth and fire, both considered sacred in the Zoroastrian faith.
Typically circular in shape, the Tower of Silence features a central well for the bones that remain after the vultures have fed. This method of disposal reflects the Zoroastrian emphasis on environmental respect and the cycle of life. The practice has diminished in modern times due to urbanization and changing cultural attitudes.