World
2022.09.04 12:43 GMT+8

Photos: The Citadel of Herat in Afghanistan

Updated 2022.09.04 12:43 GMT+8
CGTN

This photo series by CGTN photographers reveals the secrets of the Citadel of Herat, locally known as Qala Iktyaruddin. 

One of the oldest structures in the historic core of Herat, the citadel was reputedly established by Alexander the Great in around 330 BC, while its extant battlements and towers are thought to date from the early 14th century AD. 

During the Timurid rule, Timur's son Shah Rukh made Herat the Timurid capital, where he rebuilt the citadel, including commissioning the tilework that is still visible on several towers. The citadel underwent restorations both in the 1970s and in the 2000s.

The citadel underwent restorations both in the 1970s and in the 2000s. /CGTN

During the Timurid rule, Timur's son Shah Rukh commissioned the tilework that can still be seen on several towers. /CGTN

Despite regional conflicts and modern development, many historical sites in Herat, including the citadel, have withstood the test of time. /CGTN

The citadel is situated at the northern edge of the square-plan old city. /CGTN

The citadel looks over the old city of Herat. /CGTN

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