The Greater and Lesser Gyz Gala are two prominent, ancient mud-brick fortresses located in the archaeological park of the ancient city of Merv in Turkmenistan. They represent the remains of large fortified residences or castles that date back to the medieval period of the city's history.
Merv is located in the Mary Province of Turkmenistan, near the town of Mary, which is situated in the southeast of the country. The historical site is not far from the border with Afghanistan.
Merv is considered one of the most significant and oldest oasis cities along the ancient Silk Road. It has been inhabited since the 3rd millennium BC, and over the centuries, it has been a center of various civilizations, including the Achaemenids, Seleucids, Parthians, Sassanians, and Turkic peoples. It was also an important center of Islamic learning and culture, notably in the 9th and 10th centuries. The city is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its rich history and significant archaeological remains.
Yes, tourists are welcome to visit the Greater and Lesser Gyz Gala. The site is part of the Merv State Historical and Cultural Park, which is open to the public. Tourists can explore the ancient ruins, and it is advised to either hire a local guide or join a tour to get a better understanding of the history and significance of the structures.
Visitors to the Greater and Lesser Gyz Gala will find impressive architectural remains of the castles with their distinctive corrugated walls, which are believed to have had defensive purposes. The ruins provide a glimpse into the grandiosity of early medieval structures, and visitors can also explore other nearby archaeological remains that make up the ancient city of Merv.
There may be an entry fee for the Merv State Historical and Cultural Park, which includes the Gyz Gala fortresses. Tourists are advised to check the latest information on fees and opening hours before planning their visit.
The best time to visit these historical sites is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is moderate. The summer months can be extremely hot, and the winter can be quite cold, which could affect your comfort during the visit.
Basic facilities such as parking may be available, but amenities are limited due to the remote nature of the archaeological park. It is recommended that visitors bring their own supply of water and snacks and dress appropriately for a desert environment. There are no major tourist facilities like restaurants or cafes on site.
Tourists typically spend around 1-2 hours exploring the Greater and Lesser Gyz Gala and their surroundings. However, those with a deeper interest in history or archaeology might wish to spend more time delving into the details of the site.
Tourists usually reach Merv by road from the nearby town of Mary, where there is an airport with domestic connections to Turkmenistan's capital, Ashgabat. International visitors will likely connect through Ashgabat. Hiring a taxi or joining a guided tour are the most common ways to reach the site from Mary, which is approximately 30 kilometers away.
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