National Museum of American History: Parthia: The Forgotten Empire

The Parthian Empire lasted for five hundred years and have been mostly forgotten, despite their prowess in the Middle East. Their kingdom began in 247 BC when Arsaces I was elected as King of Parni. They were the only civilization that survived despite Rome's attempts to conquer them. Read about their history and geography. Includes a page listing Parthian rulers and some coins from different rulers that are in the Smithsonian collection. The Parthian Empire ended in 224 AD when it was defeated by the Sassanians.