Shapur

Shapur is a Persian male given name, used notably by several rulers of the Sasanian Empire. The name is derived from Middle Persian Šāpur and is generally understood to mean “son of the king” or “king’s son.”

Shapur I (r. c. 241–272), commonly known as Shapur the Great, expanded the empire and defeated the Roman Empire in several campaigns, and is remembered for the capture of Emperor Valerian in 260. He established urban centers such as Bishapur and left rock-relief inscriptions at Naqsh-e Rostam.

Shapur II (r. c. 309–379), called Shapur the Great by some, presided over a long reign that strengthened central authority, expanded the empire, and conducted campaigns against Rome and other rivals.

Shapur III (r. c. 383–388) continued frontier policy and internal administration, facing pressure from Rome and regional powers.

In modern times, the name remained in use as a given name in Iran and among Persian-speaking communities; it appears in various historical and literary sources in forms such as Shapur, Shahpur, and Sapur.