In the heart of northern Afghanistan, the city of Mazar-e Sharif rises from the arid plains as a hub of history, spirituality, and culture. Its centerpiece — the Blue Mosque, or Rawze-e-Sharif — stands as one of the most iconic and revered structures in Central Asia. For centuries, it has captivated visitors with its exquisite turquoise domes, intricate tilework, and the weight of legend it carries.
Mazar-i-Sharif
Afghanistan
In the arid north of Afghanistan, not far from the city of Mazar-i-Sharif, a modest archaeological site draws the attention of scholars, mystics, and wanderers alike. The exposed foundations and weathered stone walls shown in this photo are believed by local tradition to mark the birthplace of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi—the 13th-century Persian poet, Sufi mystic, and philosopher whose verses still echo across the world.
Balkh
Afghanistan
Tashkurgan is a city in northern Afghanistan in Balkh Province, which is the administrative centre of Khulm District. Its name translates from Uzbek as "stone fortress". The city is also known as Khulm in Dari, which translates from Persian as "hill". It is situated on the southern edge of the Bactrian plain at the northern foothills of the Hindu Kush. The Samangan River originates in the mountains and flows through the town, dividing into numerous artificially created irrigation canals.
Balkh is an ancient town located in the northern part of Afghanistan, about 20 kilometers northwest of the city of Mazar-i-Sharif. It sits on the ancient Silk Road trade route that connected China with the Mediterranean.
History: Balkh is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history that dates back more than 5,000 years. It has been a center of trade, culture, and religion for centuries, and has been ruled by various empires and dynasties over the years, including the Greeks, Persians, Arabs, Mongols, and Timurids.
The 4th city of the country is the economic center of northern Afghanistan, some 60 km south of the Uzbek city Termez. It is known for its magnificent blue mosque and the tomb of Mohammed's cousin, and it is in his honor that the city is called "the tomb of the saint". The city is very old, but Balkh, the neighboring city, already existed in the Bronze Age.
Some of the historical sites in Mazar-i-Sharif include: