Khosrow I (r. 531โ579), known as Anushirvan ('The Immortal Soul'), was the most celebrated ruler of the Sasanian Empire. He is revered in Persian history as a model of justice and wise governance.
Militarily, he was a formidable rival to Justinian I. He sacked Antioch in 540 and fought a long series of wars with Byzantium, securing favorable peace treaties that forced the Romans to pay tribute. His reforms revitalized the Sasanian military and tax system.
He also promoted culture and learning, famously offering refuge to the philosophers of the Academy of Athens after it was closed by Justinian. Under his rule, the game of chess (Chatrang) was introduced to Persia from India.