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DarulAman Palace: A Symbol of Afghan Resilience

Explore DarulAman Palace in Kabul: A majestic symbol of Afghanistan's history, resilience, and cultural heritage. Open to the public.

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DarulAman Palace, located southwest of Kabul, is a neoclassical-style palace built in the 1920s by King Amanullah Khan as part of his modernization efforts [3, 6]. The palace has served various purposes throughout its history, including as a refugee settlement and military base, and was severely damaged during the civil war [3, 8]. Renovated between 2016 and 2020, it now stands as a symbol of Afghanistan's rich history and enduring spirit [3, 4, 19].

A brief summary to DarulAman Palace

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the palace and its gardens [16].
  • Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the palace's history and significance [5, 16].
  • Dress modestly to respect local customs and traditions when visiting [5, 16].
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Kabul city center, the most convenient way to reach DarulAman Palace is by taxi. A one-way taxi fare typically costs around 1200 AFN, and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions [14, 17]. Ensure you negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    Public transportation options are available from Kabul city center, but they can be less direct [9, 17]. Shared minibuses, known as 'hiace,' are an affordable option [22]. However, taxis are generally preferred for a quicker and more direct route. The cost for a minibus ride is significantly lower than a taxi, but the travel time may be longer and less predictable.

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Discover more about DarulAman Palace

DarulAman Palace, meaning 'Abode of Peace,' is situated approximately 16 kilometers southwest of Kabul's city center [3, 19]. Constructed in the 1920s during the reign of King Amanullah Khan, the palace was intended to be the centerpiece of a new capital city and a symbol of Afghanistan's modernization [3, 6, 19]. The palace, designed by German engineer Walter Harten and a team of architects, showcases a European neoclassical architectural style with 150 rooms [3, 4]. It was among the first buildings in the country to have central heating and running water [6, 19]. Over the years, DarulAman Palace has witnessed significant historical events, serving various functions, including as a storehouse, military base, and refugee camp [8]. It suffered extensive damage during the 1990s civil war, leaving it in ruins for many years [3, 7]. In 2016, a restoration project was initiated to revive the palace to its former glory [8]. The restoration was completed in time for the 100th anniversary of Afghan independence in 2019, and the site is now open to the public and tourists [3]. Today, DarulAman Palace stands as a testament to Afghanistan's rich culture and history [9, 19]. Visitors can explore its grand halls and admire its intricate decorations [19]. The palace also serves as a venue for official state ceremonies, symbolizing the country's renewed sense of stability and progress [19]. The surrounding area includes other significant landmarks such as the National Assembly, the National Museum of Afghanistan, and the Afghan International University [3, 19].

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