Bernaj Rock-Cut Tomb

The Bernaj Rock-Cut Tomb (also known as Farhad Kan) is one of the notable archaeological monuments of Kermanshah Province. It is located in Harsin County, at the entrance to the village of Bernaj. The exact date of the monument is unknown and researchers disagree about it: some attribute it to the Median period or the early Achaemenid era, while others date it to the Sassanid period. On 10 Dey 1381 (Solar Hijri), it was registered as one of Iran's national monuments under registration number 7000. It lies on the northeastern slope of the Bisotun mountain range, and thanks to its carving into the rock and its distinctive architecture, it is considered one of the rare rock-cut tombs of the region.

The tomb's distinguishing feature is its square plan and its vault-like ceiling, with a height difference of about 40 centimetres reported between the front and the back of the chamber. The structure has no large relief carvings and its entrance is plain, which some researchers take as a sign that the monument was left unfinished in the Sassanid period. The historical importance of the site lies not only in its unusual architecture but also in its location in an area that holds a large complex of tombs and rock reliefs.

To reach the Bernaj Rock-Cut Tomb, you can set out from the city of Harsin and then take the road to the village of Bernaj; the attraction is about 14 kilometres northwest of Bisotun. The best time to visit the area is early spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the paths are safer. While visiting, responsible tourism is very important: do not carve or write graffiti on the historic stones, do not leave litter, and make sure you wear suitable shoes for the dirt path.