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Shahriyar Ark

Shahriyar Ark Tourism

Shahriyar Ark Tourism

Type of destination: Archeological site
Ideal visit duration: 1-2 hours
Shahriyar Ark is a significant archeological site located in the ancient city of Merv, in the Mary Province of Turkmenistan. Merv has a rich history that dates back to the 3rd millennium B.C. and has been a major urban center and a key stop along the Silk Road. Shahriyar Ark, also known as the Shahriyar Fortress, is one of the prominent remnants of Merv's urban complex, providing insight into the area's historical significance. The fortress exhibits the architectural prowess of bygone eras and was once central in the administration of the region. The site encompasses a large area with ruins that showcase building techniques and designs from different periods, ranging from Sassanian to Islamic influence. Merv itself was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999, and Shahriyar Ark contributes to the outstanding universal value of this historic urban landscape. The ruins are a testament to the cultural and economic exchange that took place in this region over centuries. Archeological efforts continue to uncover artifacts and structures that shed light on the lives of past inhabitants and their interactions with the wider world.
Religious Places (2)
Historical Places (22)
Museums (2)

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