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Minaret of Masud III: A Ghaznavid Legacy

Explore the historical Minaret of Masud III in Ghazni, a testament to the Ghaznavid Empire's rich cultural legacy.

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The Minaret of Masud III, located in Ghazni, Afghanistan, is a remnant of the Ghaznavid Empire dating back to the 12th century [7, 10]. Once towering at 44 meters, the minaret's intricate terracotta decorations and historical inscriptions offer a glimpse into the region's rich cultural past [9, 12].

A brief summary to Minaret of Masud III

  • HC8Q+XJ, Ghazni, AF

Local tips

  • Check current travel advisories and safety conditions before planning your trip to Ghazni [3, 5].
  • Consider hiring a local guide familiar with the region and its current conditions for a more informed and secure visit [3].
  • Respect local customs and traditions, dressing modestly and being mindful of cultural sensitivities [8].
  • Learn a few basic Dari phrases, as English is not widely spoken in Ghazni [5].
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Ghazni city, the Minaret of Masud III is located approximately 1 mile northeast of the old city [11]. The minaret is located on an open plain and is accessible by road [10]. Due to security concerns, it's advisable to arrange for a local guide or transportation [3].

  • Public Transport

    Local transportation options such as taxis or shared cars can be used to reach the Minaret of Masud III from Ghazni [14]. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A one-way trip within Ghazni may cost around 28 AFN (0.39 USD) [4].

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Discover more about Minaret of Masud III

The Minaret of Masud III stands as a poignant reminder of the Ghaznavid Empire's grandeur, which once stretched from the Caspian Sea to the Ganges Delta [12]. Constructed during the reign of Sultan Masud III (1099-1115 AD), the minaret, along with its counterpart built by Bahram Shah, served as elaborately decorated towers, possibly connected to a now-vanished mosque [10, 13]. Originally soaring to a height of 44 meters, the minaret's upper section succumbed to an earthquake in 1902, leaving the remaining structure at approximately 20 meters [10, 12]. The fired mud brick construction is adorned with intricate terracotta decorations, showcasing geometric patterns and Koranic verses [12]. These decorative bands also feature Kufic inscriptions containing the names and titles of Mas'ud III, along with significant Islamic figures [9]. Located on a plain northeast of Ghazni, about one mile from the old city, the minaret is near the excavated Palace of Masud III [11, 10]. The minarets may have functioned as victory towers, commemorating the Ghaznavid dynasty's power and influence [9]. Despite the ravages of time and conflict, the Minaret of Masud III continues to evoke the rich history and cultural heritage of Ghazni [7, 5].

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