Nisa: Exploring the Ancient Parthian Fortresses
Parthian fortresses of Nisa, situated in the southern part of Turkmenistan, are an ancient archaeological site that is believed to have been established in the 3rd century BC. In its heyday, it was the capital of the Parthian Empire, a powerful kingdom that spanned from Turkey to Iran and included parts of Central Asia.
The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. It is renowned for its impressive fortifications, which were constructed in a series of concentric circles and comprised of a variety of defensive structures.
Exploring the Ancient Parthian Fortresses of Nisa
The archaeological site of Nisa is located in the foothills of the Kopet Dag mountains in the south of Turkmenistan. It is situated at an elevation of 880 metres and covers an area of around 18 hectares. The site is comprised of two main areas – the Acropolis and the Lower Town – which are connected by a series of terraces.
The Acropolis is the main part of the site and is home to several impressive fortifications. These include the Grand Fortress, which is the largest and most impressive of all the structures at Nisa. This was built in the form of a circle and comprises of a series of defensive walls, towers and gates.
The Lower Town is the second part of the site and is home to a number of other structures, including the Small Fortress, which is smaller than the Grand Fortress but still an impressive structure. There are also the remains of an ancient temple complex, which is thought to have been dedicated to the god Mithra.
Visiting the Parthian Fortresses of Nisa
The Parthian fortresses of Nisa are open to the public and can be visited on a guided tour. The site is open year-round and is usually open from 9am-4pm, although opening times may vary depending on the season.
The tour begins at the Acropolis, where visitors can explore the defensive walls, towers and gates of the Grand Fortress. From here, visitors can also explore the Small Fortress and the remains of the temple complex.
The tour also includes a visit to the Lower Town, where visitors can explore the remains of residential buildings and other structures. There is also an on-site museum, which houses a number of artefacts that have been recovered from the site.
Conclusion
The Parthian fortresses of Nisa are a fascinating archaeological site that provide an insight into the history and culture of the ancient Parthian Empire. The site is open year-round and can be explored on a guided tour. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of this region.