Homa

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Homa (in Persian هما) is a griffin-like mythological creature and symbol in Persian art. ^{[citation needed]}The history of the creature's depiction dates back to the Achaemenid Persians, most notably at the palace of Persepolis where many sculptures of Homa were constructed, e.g. at the top of columns^{[citation needed]}. In Iranian legends, Homa would fly and then land on the head or shoulder of a king-elect upon death of a king, although this is sometimes attributed to the other Persian mythological bird Huma.

Its most notable contemporary appearance is as the symbol of Iran's national airline, Iran Air, whose acronym is Homa, formed from the initial letters of the phrase "Iran National Airline" in Persian, هواپیمایی ملی ایران "Havapeyma'i-ye Melli-ye Iran".

Statues of two head Homa in Persepolis ruins, Iran

A relief of Armenian tribute bearer carrying a metal vessel with Homa (griffin) handles. From the eastern stairs of the Apadana at Persepolis, 6th century BC.

See also

• Simurgh
• Persian mythology

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