The Epic Vibes of Alexander the Great’s Interaction with Cyrus

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Alexander the Great, who built the Hellenistic Empire at a young age without a single loss, finally crushed his nemesis, the Achaemenid Persian Empire, and stood before the tomb of Cyrus the Great—the man who built the first great empire in human history before him.

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But the tomb was surprisingly small and plain for the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. Even Alexander couldn't believe it, saying, "Is this truly the tomb of the legendary Cyrus? How can it be so humble?" Legend has it that Cyrus had an inscription carved on the tomb that read as follows:

"Stranger, whoever you are and wherever you come from, I knew you would come. I am Cyrus, who founded the Persian Empire. Do not mock this handful of dust that covers my bones. No matter how great a king you are, you leave this world empty-handed. I, too, left with nothing and only wish to rest in this small shelter. O nameless king, do not disturb my sleep. Why would I need treasures when I go with nothing? You, too, will eventually leave with empty hands."

After reading this, Alexander bowed and left the tomb untouched. To this day, the tomb of Cyrus the Great still stands in that very spot.

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