Herat Citadel: A Timeless Sentinel
Explore the ancient Herat Citadel: a historic fortress with roots stretching back to Alexander the Great, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Afghan history.
The Herat Citadel, also known as Qala Ikhtyaruddin, stands as a proud symbol of Herat's rich history. Believed to have been founded by Alexander the Great in 330 BC, it has been rebuilt and repurposed by numerous empires over the centuries, serving as a seat of power, a military garrison, and even a prison [5, 6, 8]. Today, it's a beautifully restored monument offering visitors a glimpse into Afghanistan's layered past [6, 15].
A brief summary to Herat Citadel
- 85WQ+753 قلعه اختیارالدین (ارگ تاریخی هرات)، جاده انصاری, Herat, Pay-e-Hesar, AF
- +93728084000
- Monday 10 am-12 am
- Tuesday 10 am-12 am
- Wednesday 10 am-12 am
- Thursday 10 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 10 am-4 am
- Sunday 10 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over Herat from the citadel ramparts [7, 13].
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces within the citadel [7].
- Check local sources for the most up-to-date opening hours, as they can vary [7].
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the historical significance of the citadel [13].
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Herat city, the Citadel is easily accessible on foot. ориентируйтесь на север, направляясь к جاده انصاری (Ansari Road). The Citadel will be visible as you approach, towering over the Old City. Allow approximately 15-20 minutes to walk from the central bazaar area. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
Local buses and shared taxis are available throughout Herat. Look for транспорта heading towards the Pay-e-Hesar area. Ask the driver to drop you off near the قلعه اختیارالدین (арг تاریخی هرات) on جاده انصاری. From there, it's a short walk to the Citadel entrance. Bus fare should be approximately 10-20 AFN [14, 18].
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Herat [11, 18, 24]. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Herat Citadel should cost around 150-300 AFN, depending on your negotiation skills and the distance [12, 18].
Discover more about Herat Citadel
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