Hisor Fortress

Hisor Fortress: A Detailed Guide to One of Tajikistan’s Most Intriguing Ancient Sites

Tajikistan is a fascinating country, home to a wealth of cultural treasures, including some of the oldest and most impressive fortresses in Central Asia. One of the most remarkable is the Hisor Fortress, located in the small town of Hisor, just a few miles from the capital city of Dushanbe. This ancient structure, built in the 16th century and known as the ‘Pearl of Tajikistan’, is a must-see for anyone interested in the country’s rich history and culture.

 

What is the Hisor Fortress?

The Hisor Fortress is a sprawling complex constructed in the 16th century by the Uzbek ruler, Abdulla Khan, to protect the city of Hisor from invaders. Located on a hilltop overlooking the city, the fortress covers an area of some 8.5 hectares and is made up of a number of imposing structures, including four gates, two towers, and a wall with battlements. The walls are made from sun-dried brick and are up to 2.5 metres thick in some places, while the towers reach a height of up to 10 metres.

 

Exploring the Hisor Fortress

The Hisor Fortress is a fascinating place to explore, and visitors can spend hours wandering the walls and towers, admiring the intricate brickwork and taking in the spectacular views of the city and surrounding countryside. The site also houses a number of interesting museums, including the National Museum of Hisor, which showcases a range of artifacts from the area’s pre-Islamic and Islamic periods, as well as a gallery devoted to the works of Tajik sculptor, Kamoliddin Bekhzod.

The Hisor Fortress is a popular destination for visitors to Tajikistan, and it’s easy to see why. Not only is it one of the most impressive fortresses in Central Asia, but it also provides a wonderful insight into the country’s culture and history.

 

Things to See at the Hisor Fortress

When visiting Hisor Fortress, there are a number of things to see and do. Here are some of the highlights:

• The Gates: The Hisor Fortress is made up of four gates, each of which is decorated with intricate brickwork and carvings. The central gate is the most impressive, and it is said to have been built by the famous Uzbek ruler, Abdulla Khan.
• The Towers: The two towers of the Hisor Fortress are among the most impressive features of the complex, and they provide stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. The taller of the two towers is known as the ‘Kurgan Tower’, and it is believed to have been built by Abdulla Khan himself.
• Museums: The Hisor Fortress houses a number of interesting museums, including the National Museum of Hisor, which showcases artifacts from the area’s pre-Islamic and Islamic periods. There is also a gallery devoted to the works of Tajik sculptor, Kamoliddin Bekhzod.

 

Things to Do at the Hisor Fortress

As well as exploring the fortress itself, there are a number of activities to enjoy at Hisor Fortress. Here are some of the highlights:

• Hiking: The Hisor Fortress is surrounded by lush countryside, and there are a number of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the area.
• Picnicking: The grounds of the Hisor Fortress make for a great spot to enjoy a picnic lunch, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the warm sunshine.
• Photography: With its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings, the Hisor Fortress is a photographer’s paradise. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this ancient site.
• Cultural Events: Throughout the year, the Hisor Fortress hosts a range of cultural events and festivals, including traditional music and dance performances, craft fairs, and food festivals. Check local listings to see what’s happening during your visit.
• Guided Tours: To learn more about the history and significance of the Hisor Fortress, consider taking a guided tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. They can provide valuable insights into the fortress’s past and its role in Tajikistan’s history.
• Shopping: Before you leave, don’t forget to stop by the souvenir shops located near the fortress entrance. Here you can find a range of locally made crafts, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry, perfect for bringing home as a memento of your visit.