Parthian Fortresses of Nisa in Turkmenistan

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2007
Size of heritage: 78 ha
- Buffer zone: 400 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 58,199°
Latitude: 38,000°

Summary

The Parthian Fortresses of Nisa consist of two tells of Old and New Nisa, indicating the site of one of the earliest and most important cities of the Parthian Empire, a major power from the mid 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD. They conserve the unexcavated remains of an ancient civilization which skilfully combined its own traditional cultural elements with those of the Hellenistic and Roman west. Archaeological excavations in two parts of the site have revealed richly decorated architecture, illustrative of domestic, state and religious functions. Situated at the crossroads of important commercial and strategic axes, this powerful empire formed a barrier to Roman expansion while serving as an important communication and trading centre between east and west, north and south.

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Parthian Fortresses of Nisa: A Glimpse into Ancient Turkmenistan

The Parthian Fortresses of Nisa, located in the Bagyr settlement of the Etrap of Rukhabad, Akhal Vilayet in Turkmenistan, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a fascinating insight into the rich history of the region. These fortresses, dating back to the 3rd century BCE, were once the capital of the Parthian Empire, one of the most powerful and influential civilizations of its time.

The Parthian Empire, which spanned from the eastern Mediterranean to the Indus River, flourished between 247 BCE and 224 CE. Nisa, strategically located on the Silk Road, served as the empire's political, economic, and cultural center. The fortresses were built on a series of hills, providing a natural defensive advantage.

The Parthian Fortresses of Nisa consist of two main complexes: Old Nisa and New Nisa. Old Nisa, the original capital, was constructed during the reign of Arsaces I, the founder of the Parthian Empire. It was a grand city with palaces, temples, and residential areas. The ruins of Old Nisa reveal the architectural brilliance of the Parthians, with intricate brickwork and decorative elements.

New Nisa, built during the reign of Mithridates I, was a fortified city that served as a royal residence. It featured a central citadel surrounded by walls and towers. The remains of New Nisa showcase the military prowess of the Parthians, with its defensive structures and strategic layout.

Over the centuries, Nisa faced numerous invasions and was eventually abandoned in the 13th century. The site was rediscovered in the 19th century and excavations began in the 20th century, revealing the remarkable history and cultural significance of the Parthian Empire.

Today, the Parthian Fortresses of Nisa stand as a testament to the grandeur of the Parthian civilization. The site has been carefully preserved and restored, allowing visitors to experience the magnificence of this ancient capital. The ruins of Old Nisa and New Nisa offer a glimpse into the daily life, architecture, and art of the Parthians.

The Parthian Fortresses of Nisa were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007, recognizing their outstanding universal value. The site serves as a reminder of the importance of the Parthian Empire in shaping the history and culture of the region.

Visitors to the Parthian Fortresses of Nisa can explore the archaeological remains, including the royal tombs, temples, and residential areas. The site also features a museum that displays artifacts discovered during the excavations, providing further insights into the Parthian civilization.

The Parthian Fortresses of Nisa not only offer a captivating journey into the past but also contribute to the cultural heritage of Turkmenistan and the world. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a site of immense historical and archaeological significance, attracting visitors from around the globe who seek to unravel the mysteries of the Parthian Empire.