World Heritage Sites in Afghanistan


Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam

(34.396 N 64.516 E) -- satellite image

Located in a deep river valley between towering mountains in the Ghur province, the 65m-tall Minaret of Jam dates back to the 12th century. It is covered in elaborate brickwork with a blue tile inscription at the top representative of the architectural and artistic tradition in this region.


Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley

(34.823 N 67.803 E) -- satellite image

The Bamiyan Valley is a monumental expression of Buddhism characterizing Bakhtria from the 1st to 13th centuries and contains numerous Buddhist monastic ensembles and sanctuaries. It was also an important centre of pilgrimage over many centuries. In March 2001 the Taliban deliberatedly destroyed two enormous standing Buddha statues that were 1600 years old.



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Lynn Salmon <>{

Last Updated: August 2, 2021