Faizabad, also spelled Fayzabad or Feyzabad, is the provincial capital and largest city of Badakhshan Province in northeastern Afghanistan. Settled on the banks of the Kokcha River, Faizabad is in a rugged, mountainous area, which is part of the Hindu Kush mountain range. The city is a major commercial and administrative center for the region, with a semiarid climate, featuring cold winters and hot summers. Historically, Faizabad's strategic location made it a significant trading hub, especially for lapis lazuli exports. The city's inhabitants are primarily Tajik, with a presence of other ethnic groups such as Uzbek and Hazara. Faizabad has historically faced several challenges including political instability, economic struggles, and issues related to infrastructure and healthcare services. Nonetheless, it remains an important regional center and has seen various rehabilitation projects over recent years to improve living conditions, including road upgrades and expansions to the airport that serves the city.
