Ardabil itself, said to be of Sasanian foundation, is justly celebrated for the very beautiful mausoleum of Sheikh Safi-al-Deen, the founder of the Safavid dynasty, who lived and died in the city, being buried there in 1334 A.D. Although there are many other interesting sites, including an early sixteenth century mausoleum that has replaced the original one built for Sheikh Safi's father.