What is Herat, and what is its significance in Afghanistan?

Herat is an oasis city and the third-largest city in Afghanistan. It serves as the capital of Herat Province, located in the fertile valley of the Hari River in the western part of the country. Historically, it was an ancient civilization on the Silk Road, connecting West Asia, Central Asia, and South Asia, and continues to be a regional hub.

What are some of the historical names by which Herat has been known?

Historically, Herat has been known by several names, including Hira, Harew, Haraiva, and Horeiva. In the Old Persian Achaemenid Empire, the surrounding district was called Haraiva, and in classical sources, it was known as Areia.

What was the estimated population of Herat in 2020 and 2021?

In 2020, Herat had an estimated population of 574,276. By 2021, the estimated population had increased to approximately 592,902.

What is the origin of the name 'Herat' and its ancient district 'Haraiva'?

The name of the district Haraiva and its principal town, Herat, is derived from the local Hari River. In Old Iranian, 'Harayu' means 'with velocity,' referring to the river that flows through the district and ends south of Herat.

What is Herat's historical nickname, and what does it signify?

Herat is traditionally known as the 'Pearl of Khorasan.' This nickname highlights its historical importance as a significant city in the larger Khorasan region during the Middle Ages, renowned for its intellectual and artistic life.

Which ancient Persian empire first recorded Herat's surrounding district, and how were its representatives depicted?

Herat's surrounding district, known as Haraiva, was first recorded under the Persian Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BC). Representatives from this district are depicted in reliefs at royal Achaemenid tombs, such as Naqsh-e Rustam and Persepolis, wearing Scythian-style dress with a tunic, trousers tucked into high boots, and a twisted Bashlyk covering their head, chin, and neck.

What was Herodotus's description of Herat?

Herodotus, an ancient Greek historian, described Herat as the 'breadbasket of Central Asia,' indicating its agricultural richness and importance in the region.

How did Alexander the Great impact Herat in 330 BC?

In late 330 BC, Alexander the Great captured the Arian capital, Artacoana, which was then rebuilt, and a citadel was constructed. Following this, Afghanistan, including Herat, became part of the Seleucid Empire.

What was the predominant religion in Herat during the Parthian and Sasanian periods?

During the Parthian Empire (starting 167 BC) and the Sasanian period (226–652 AD), Herat was predominantly Zoroastrian. Additionally, a Christian community with a bishop from the Church of the East was recorded in the town around 430 AD.

What was Herat's strategic importance during the last two centuries of Sasanian rule?

In the last two centuries of Sasanian rule, Aria (Herat) held great strategic importance due to endless wars between the Sasanians, the Chionites, and the Hephthalites, who were settled in northern Afghanistan.

How did the Arab invasion in the mid-7th century affect Herat's governance and religious landscape?

During the Arab invasion in the mid-7th century, Sasanian central power in Herat was largely nominal, with Hephthalite tribal lords holding influence. Despite initial resistance from Hephthalites and Turks, Herat eventually submitted to the Arabs, becoming a site of repeated rebellions and re-conquests, ultimately leading to its conversion to Islam.

What was the extent of Tang Dynasty China's influence in Herat during the 650s?

By 659–661 AD, Tang Dynasty China claimed a tenuous suzerainty over Herat, marking the westernmost point of Chinese power in its history. However, this control was short-lived, as local Turkish tribes rebelled and drove out the Tang forces by 665 AD.

Who founded the Saffarid dynasty and how did they conquer Herat?

Ya'qub ibn al-Layth al-Saffar, a coppersmith's apprentice and the founder of the Saffarid dynasty, conquered Herat and other nearby regions in the name of Islam. He began launching raids on Herat in 862 AD, eventually besieging and capturing it on August 16, 867, and again in 872, expelling the Taherids from Khorasan.

How did Herat become part of the Ghaznavid Empire?

Herat came under Ghaznavid rule after Nuh III, the Samanid king, invited Alptegin to his aid against the insubordinate governor Faik. Alptegin, along with Mahmud of Ghazni, defeated Faik in 994 and annexed Herat, Nishapur, and Tous. Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni officially took control of Khorasan, including Herat, in 998.

What was Herat's economic and urban status during the Abbasid Caliphate and the 10th century?

During the Abbasid Caliphate, Herat was a major trading center, strategically located on routes from the Mediterranean to India or China, and was noted for its textiles. In the 10th century, geographers Estakhri and Ibn Hawqal described it as a prosperous town with strong walls, abundant water, extensive suburbs, an inner citadel, a congregational mosque, and four gates each leading to a thriving marketplace.

What significant cultural and religious sites were present in Herat's countryside during the 10th century?

In the 10th century, a church was still visible northeast of Herat on the road to Balkh, and further away on a hilltop, a flourishing fire temple called Sereshk or Arshak stood, according to Mustawfi.

What was the state of Herat under the Ghurid dynasty in the 12th century, according to Hamdallah Mustawfi?

According to Hamdallah Mustawfi, Herat flourished significantly under the Ghurid dynasty in the 12th century. He reported that the city had 359 colleges, 12,000 fully occupied shops, 6,000 bath-houses, numerous caravanserais and mills, a darwish convent, and a fire temple. The settled population occupied about 444,000 houses, and the men were described as 'warlike and carry arms' and Sunni Muslims.

What notable architectural achievement was made in Herat during the Ghurid period?

The great mosque of Herat, also known as the Friday Mosque of Herat, was built by Ghiyasuddin Ghori in 1201 during the Ghurid period. This era also saw Herat become an important center for producing metal goods, particularly bronze, often adorned with intricate inlays of precious metals.

What were the consequences of the Mongol Empire's sieges on Herat?

The Mongol Empire besieged Herat twice. The first siege led to the city's surrender, the slaughter of the local sultan's army, and the appointment of Mongol and Muslim governors. The second siege, following a rebellion, lasted seven months and reportedly resulted in the beheading of the entire population of 1,600,000 people in June 1222, leaving the city in ruins until around 1236.

How did Herat regain its prominence after the Mongol destruction?

After the Mongol destruction, Herat remained in ruins until about 1236. In 1244, Shams al-Din Kart was named ruler by the Mongol governor of Khorasan, founding a new dynasty. Under his successors, particularly Fakhruddin Kart and Ghiyasuddin Kart, many mosques and buildings were constructed, and the city became a significant center for literature and arts, once again earning the title 'pearl of Khorasan'.

What was the cultural significance of Herat under the Timurid princes?

Under the Timurid princes, especially Sultan Husayn Bayqara (1469-1506), Herat reached its greatest glory, serving as the main capital of an empire extending to central Persia. It was renowned for its fine religious buildings, sumptuous court life, musical performances, and miniature paintings, becoming a center of cultural rebirth comparable to Florence during the Italian Renaissance.

Who was Mir Ali-Shir Nava'i, and what was his role in Timurid Herat?

Mir Ali-Shir Nava'i was the chief minister to Sultan Husayn Bayqara and a celebrated poet and author in Persian and Turkish. He was a great builder and patron of the arts, contributing significantly to Herat's cultural and architectural development during the Timurid era.

What building activities characterized Shahrokh's reign in Herat?

Shahrokh's reign in Herat, beginning in 1397, was marked by intense royal patronage and extensive building activities. This included the construction of the present Musallah Complex, the madrasa of Gawhar Shad, Ali Shir mahal, numerous gardens, and the rebuilding of the shrine of Khwajah Abdullah Ansari.

How did Herat's political status change under the Safavid dynasty?

After being occupied by the Uzbeks in 1507, Herat was taken by Shah Isma'il, the founder of the Safavid dynasty, in 1510. Under the Safavids, Herat was a provincial capital of particular importance, and all future Safavid Persian rulers, from Tahmasp I to Abbas I, served as governors of Herat in their youth. Safavid texts referred to Herat as 'the greatest of the cities of Iran'.

Who was Shah Abbas the Great, and what was his connection to Herat?

Shah Abbas the Great, a prominent emperor of Safavid Persia, was born in Herat. This connection highlights the city's significance within the Safavid Empire, where it was considered 'the greatest of the cities of Iran'.

When did Herat become part of Afghanistan, and under whose rule?

After Nader Shah's death in 1747, Ahmad Shah Durrani took possession of Herat, and it became part of the Durrani Empire, marking its incorporation into Afghanistan.

What was the nature of Herat's independence in the early 19th century?

In the first half of the 19th century, Herat became an independent city-state. During this period, it faced multiple invasions from Qajar Iran between 1801 and 1837, and again in 1856, before being fully incorporated into Afghanistan in 1863.

How did the British intervene in Herat's conflicts with Iran in the 19th century?

The British assisted the Heratis in repelling an Iranian siege in 1837. Later, an Iranian invasion and capture of the city on October 25, 1856, directly led to the Anglo-Persian War, which ended with the Treaty of Paris in 1857, compelling Persian troops to withdraw from Herat.

When and by whom was Herat finally conquered and incorporated into Afghanistan?

Herat was conquered and incorporated into Afghanistan on May 26, 1863, by Dost Muhammad Khan, just two weeks before his death.

What happened to the Musalla of Gawhar Shah in Herat during the Panjdeh incident?

The famous Musalla of Gawhar Shah, a large Islamic religious complex in Herat featuring five minarets, mausoleums, mosques, and madrasas, was dynamited during the Panjdeh incident. This action was taken to prevent its use by advancing Russian forces, though emergency preservation work was later carried out.

What was the significance of Herat in the Afghan Civil War (1928–1929)?

In the aftermath of the Afghan Civil War (1928–1929), Herat served as the last stronghold of Saqqawist resistance. It held out until 1931 when forces loyal to Mohammad Nadir Shah retook the city.

Who built Herat Airport, and how was it used during the Soviet-Afghan War?

Herat Airport was built by engineers from the United States in the 1960s. During the Soviet-Afghan War in the 1980s, it was utilized by the Soviet Armed Forces.

Describe the 1979 Herat uprising.

Between March 10–20, 1979, the Afghan Army in Herat, led by commander Ismail Khan, mutinied against the Khalq communist regime. Thousands of protesters joined, leading to the ousting of communists and control of the city for three days. The uprising, which included attacks on Soviet advisors and women without headscarves, resulted in reprisals by the government, killing between 3,000 and 24,000 people, and was the bloodiest event before the Soviet-Afghan War.

What was the impact of the Soviet-Afghan War on Herat?

Herat sustained damage during the Soviet-Afghan War, particularly its western side, making the province one of the worst-hit areas. In April 1983, Soviet bombings caused extensive damage to half the city and killed approximately 3,000 civilians.

When did the Taliban first capture Herat, and what was the local reaction?

The Taliban captured Herat on September 5, 1995, with little resistance, forcing then-governor Ismail Khan to flee. As the first Persian-speaking city taken by the Taliban, their strict enforcement of laws, such as confining women at home and closing girls' schools, alienated the traditionally more liberal and educated Heratis, leading to anti-Taliban protests in December 1996 that were violently suppressed.

How did Herat change after the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan in 2001?

Following the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan, Herat was captured from the Taliban by forces loyal to the Northern Alliance on November 12, 2001. Ismail Khan returned to power, and the city was reportedly in much better condition than Kabul, beginning a period of recovery and rebuilding.

What is the climate classification of Herat, and what are its characteristics?

Herat has a cold semi-arid climate, classified as BSk under the Köppen climate classification. It experiences very low precipitation, mostly in winter, and while summer temperatures are more temperate than Kandahar, winter temperatures are comparably lower. Strong northwest winds blow from May to September, and the eastern Hari River freezes hard in winter.

What are some of the prominent neighborhoods within Herat city limits?

Some of the prominent neighborhoods within Herat city limits include Shahr-e Naw (Downtown), Welayat (Office of the governor), Qol-Ordue (Army's HQ), Farqa (Army's HQ), Darwaze Khosh, Chaharsu, Pul-e Rangine, Sufi-abad, New-abad, Pul-e malaan, Thakhte Safar, Howz-e-Karbas, Baramaan, Darwaze-ye Qandahar, Darwaze-ye Iraq, and Darwaze Az Kordestan.

What are some of the notable monuments in Herat?

Notable monuments in Herat include the Herat Citadel (also known as Qala Ikhtyaruddin or Arg), the Musallah Complex, and the Musalla Minarets of Herat. Efforts are underway by UNESCO and Afghan authorities to stabilize the remaining minarets, which are threatened by everyday traffic.

Where is the Herat Museum located?

The Herat Museum is located inside the Herat Citadel, which is locally referred to as Qala Ikhtyaruddin or Arg.

What are the primary ethnic groups and languages spoken in Herat?

According to the 2023 CSSF Report, Herat is majority Pashtun, making up 40% of the province's population, with significant Tajik, Hazara, and Uzbek minorities. Persian is the native language of Herat, with the local dialect known as Herati, which also serves as the lingua franca of the city. Pashto, a variant of western Pashto, is the second language understood by many.

What are the main forms of transport infrastructure in Herat?

Herat's main transport infrastructure includes air travel via Herat International Airport, road connections through the AH76, AH77, and Highway 1, and proposed rail connections, with construction underway for a railway linking Khaf in Iran to Herat.

What is the status of rail connections to Herat?

Rail connections to Herat have been proposed multiple times throughout history. In 2002, funding was announced for a railway connecting Torbat-e Heydarieh in Iran to Herat, later changed to begin in Khaf, Iran. Construction is ongoing on the Afghan side of this 191 km railway for cargo and passengers, with an estimated completion by March 2018, and there is a prospect of extending it across Afghanistan to Sher Khan Bandar.

Which highways connect Herat to other regions?

The AH76 highway connects Herat to Maymana and the north. The AH77 connects it east towards Chaghcharan and north towards Mary in Turkmenistan. Highway 1, part of Asian Highway AH1, links Herat to Mashhad in Iran to the northwest and south via the Kandahar–Herat Highway to Delaram.

Who are some notable poets from Herat?

Notable poets from Herat include Asjadi (10th-11th century Persian royal poet), Khwajah Abdullah al-Herawi al-Ansari (11th century Persian poet), Pur-Baha Jami (13th century Iranian poet), Nur ud-Din Jami (15th century Persian Sufi poet), Nizam ud-Din Ali Shir Herawi (famous poet and scientist of the Timurid era), Hatefi (16th century Persian poet), Latif Nazemi (Persian poet), and Nadia Anjuman (1981–2005, poet writing in Dari).

Which professional sports teams are based in Herat?

Herat is home to two professional sports teams: the Hindukush Stars, which plays cricket in the Shpageeza Cricket League, and Toofan Harirod F.C., which plays football in the Afghan Premier League.

What is the name of Herat's sister city in the United States?

Herat's sister city in the United States is Council Bluffs, Iowa, an affiliation established in 2016.

What is the significance of the Great Mosque of Herat?

The Great Mosque of Herat, also known as the Friday Mosque of Herat, is one of the oldest mosques in Afghanistan. It was built by Ghiyasuddin Ghori in 1201 during the Ghurid dynasty, marking it as a significant historical and religious landmark.

What is the local name for the Herat Citadel?

The Herat Citadel is locally referred to as Qala Ikhtyaruddin or Arg.

Herat Wiki: Herat Unveiled: A Scholarly Expedition Through Afghanistan's Ancient Heart

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What is Herat?

A Strategic Oasis City

Herat, historically known by names such as Hira, Harew, Haraiva, and Horeiva, is a vital oasis city and the third-largest urban center in Afghanistan.^[1] As of 2020, its estimated population stood at 574,276, growing to approximately 592,902 by 2021.^[2] It serves as the provincial capital of Herat Province, strategically positioned south of the Paropamisus Mountains in the fertile valley of the Hari River, in the western part of the nation.^[1]

Crossroads of Civilizations

This ancient city has long been a critical nexus on the historic Silk Road, connecting West Asia, Central Asia, and South Asia.^[3] Its strategic location has cemented its role as a regional hub in Afghanistan's western territories. Herat's rich heritage dates back to Avestan times, and it was traditionally celebrated for its wine production.^[4]

The Pearl of Khorasan

During the medieval period, Herat ascended to prominence as one of the most significant cities within Greater Khorasan, earning the esteemed moniker "The Pearl of Khorasan."^[5] Its historical landscape is adorned with numerous iconic sites, including the formidable Herat Citadel and the majestic Musalla Complex. In 2021, Herat was officially announced for consideration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its unparalleled cultural and historical value.^[6]

Historical Epochs

Ancient Foundations

Herat's origins are deeply rooted in antiquity, though its precise founding date remains elusive. Under the Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BC), the region was known as Haraiva, and in classical texts, as Areia. The Zoroastrian Avesta refers to it as Haroiva. These names are derived from the local Hari River, meaning "with velocity."^[7] Herodotus famously described Herat as "the breadbasket of Central Asia." Alexander the Great captured the Arian capital, Artacoana, in 330 BC, subsequently rebuilding the town and constructing its citadel.^[8]

**Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BC):** Known as Haraiva, a vital satrapy.
**Alexander's Conquest (330 BC):** Artacoana, the Arian capital, was captured and rebuilt.
**Seleucid Empire:** Herat became part of this Hellenistic realm.
**Parthian Empire (167 BC):** Incorporated into the Parthian domain.
**Sasanian Period (226–652 AD):** Referred to as Harēv and Hariy, it was a crucial strategic point in conflicts with the Chionites and Hephthalites. A Christian community with a bishop was present by 430 AD.^[9]

Islamic Ascendancy

The Arab invasion in the mid-7th century marked a pivotal shift. Despite initial resistance from Hephthalite tribal lords, Herat eventually submitted to Arab forces. It was one of the twelve capital towns of the Sasanian Empire at the time of the Arab armies' arrival in Khorasan in the 650s.^[10] The city experienced several rebellions and reconquests. Notably, the Tang dynasty of China briefly claimed suzerainty over Herat between 659–661 AD, marking its westernmost historical reach.^[11] In 870, Ya'qub ibn al-Layth al-Saffar, founder of the Saffarid dynasty, conquered Herat, bringing it firmly under Islamic rule.^[12]

Medieval Golden Age

Herat truly flourished during the medieval era, particularly under the Ghurid dynasty in the 12th century. Contemporary accounts describe a vibrant city boasting "359 colleges, 12,000 shops all fully occupied, 6,000 bath-houses," alongside numerous caravanserais and mills.^[13] It became a significant center for metal goods production, especially bronze adorned with precious metal inlays. The Great Mosque of Herat, a testament to this era's architectural prowess, was constructed by Ghiyasuddin Ghori in 1201.^[13]

**Samanid Dynasty (875–999):** Herat was a key city, serving as a model for later administrations.
**Ghaznavid Era (998 onwards):** Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni took control, and Herat was one of six Ghaznavid mints.
**Seljuk Empire (1040):** Briefly captured Herat.
**Mongol Invasions (1222):** Devastating sieges, with one account reporting the slaughter of 1.6 million inhabitants.^[14]
**Kartid Dynasty (1244–1381):** Rebuilt the city, becoming great patrons of arts and literature, solidifying Herat's reputation as the "pearl of Khorasan." Rumi himself praised Herat's beauty.^[13]
**Timurid Renaissance (1380–1506):** Under Timur and later Shahrokh and Sultan Husayn Bayqara, Herat became the empire's capital, a hub of intellectual and artistic life, often compared to Florence during the Italian Renaissance. This period saw extensive building, including the Musallah Complex and Gawhar Shad Madrasa, and a flourishing tradition of miniature painting.^[15]
**Safavid Dynasty (1510–1709):** Herat became an important provincial capital; Shah Abbas the Great was born here, and it was referred to as "the greatest of the cities of Iran."^[16]

Modern Transformations

The early 18th century saw Herat under Abdali Afghan rule. Following Nader Shah's death in 1747, Ahmad Shah Durrani incorporated it into the Durrani Empire.^[17] Herat experienced periods as an independent city-state and faced multiple Qajar Iranian invasions before its final incorporation into Afghanistan in 1863.^[18] The 20th century brought further upheaval, including the dynamiting of the Musalla of Gawhar Shah during the Panjdeh incident to prevent its use by Russian forces.^[19] The city was a stronghold of Saqqawist resistance in the Afghan Civil War (1928–1929).^[20]

**Soviet-Afghan War Era (1960s-1980s):** Herat Airport was built by U.S. engineers and later used by Soviet forces. The city saw a significant Soviet advisory presence.
**1979 Herat Uprising:** A major rebellion against the Khalq communist regime, resulting in thousands of civilian deaths and severe damage to the city.^[21]
**Post-Soviet Era (1990s):** Ismail Khan, a leading mujahideen commander, governed Herat Province after the communist collapse.
**Taliban Rule (1995-2001):** The city was captured by the Taliban, who imposed strict laws, leading to protests and a curfew.^[22]
**Post-2001:** Following the U.S. invasion, Ismail Khan returned to power. The International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) established bases, and security responsibility transitioned to Afghan forces in 2011.^[23]
**2021 Taliban Offensive:** Herat was captured by the Taliban on August 12, 2021.^[24]

Geography & Climate

Cold Semi-Arid Environment

Herat experiences a cold semi-arid climate (Köppen climate classification BSk). Precipitation levels are notably low, with most rainfall occurring during the winter months. Despite being approximately 240 meters (790 feet) lower in elevation than Kandahar, Herat's summer climate is more temperate, and the overall year-round climate is generally agreeable, though winter temperatures can be comparatively low.^[25]

Seasonal Wind Patterns

A distinctive climatic feature of Herat is the strong northwest wind that prevails from May to September. Winters are typically mild, with snow melting relatively quickly and not persisting long even on the surrounding mountains. The eastern stretches of the Hari River, including its rapids, freeze solid in winter, allowing for travel across its surface as if it were a road.^[25]

Climatic Data Overview

The following table provides a detailed overview of Herat's climate data, reflecting average conditions between 1958 and 1983, highlighting temperature extremes, precipitation, humidity, and sunshine hours.

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Record high °C (°F)	24.4 (75.9)	27.6 (81.7)	31.0 (87.8)	37.8 (100.0)	39.7 (103.5)	44.6 (112.3)	50.7 (123.3)	42.7 (108.9)	39.3 (102.7)	37.0 (98.6)	30.0 (86.0)	26.5 (79.7)	50.7 (123.3)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F)	9.1 (48.4)	11.9 (53.4)	17.9 (64.2)	24.0 (75.2)	29.6 (85.3)	35.0 (95.0)	36.7 (98.1)	35.1 (95.2)	31.4 (88.5)	25.0 (77.0)	17.8 (64.0)	12.0 (53.6)	23.8 (74.8)
Daily mean °C (°F)	2.9 (37.2)	5.5 (41.9)	10.2 (50.4)	16.3 (61.3)	22.1 (71.8)	27.2 (81.0)	29.8 (85.6)	28.0 (82.4)	22.9 (73.2)	16.1 (61.0)	8.8 (47.8)	4.7 (40.5)	16.2 (61.2)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F)	−2.9 (26.8)	−0.6 (30.9)	3.8 (38.8)	9.1 (48.4)	13.3 (55.9)	18.2 (64.8)	21.2 (70.2)	19.2 (66.6)	13.2 (55.8)	7.4 (45.3)	1.0 (33.8)	−1.4 (29.5)	8.5 (47.2)
Record low °C (°F)	−26.7 (−16.1)	−20.5 (−4.9)	−13.3 (8.1)	−2.3 (27.9)	0.8 (33.4)	9.7 (49.5)	13.3 (55.9)	8.4 (47.1)	1.3 (34.3)	−5.6 (21.9)	−12.8 (9.0)	−22.7 (−8.9)	−26.7 (−16.1)
Average precipitation mm (inches)	51.6 (2.03)	44.8 (1.76)	55.1 (2.17)	29.2 (1.15)	9.8 (0.39)	0.0 (0.0)	0.0 (0.0)	0.0 (0.0)	0.0 (0.0)	1.7 (0.07)	10.9 (0.43)	35.8 (1.41)	238.9 (9.41)
Average rainy days	6	8	8	7	2	0	0	0	0	1	3	5	40
Average snowy days	2	2	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	6
Average relative humidity (%)	72	69	62	56	45	34	30	30	34	42	55	67	50
Mean monthly sunshine hours	149.3	153.5	202.5	235.7	329.6	362.6	378.6	344.8	323.2	274.0	235.0	143.1	3,131.9

Places of Interest

Historic Monuments

Herat is home to a wealth of historical monuments that reflect its layered past and architectural grandeur. These sites are not merely relics but living testaments to the city's enduring cultural significance.

Herat Citadel (Qala Ikhtyaruddin or Arg): An ancient fortress with a history spanning over two millennia, rebuilt by Alexander the Great and later by Timurid rulers. It now houses the Herat Museum.^[26]
Musalla Complex: A grand Islamic religious complex, though much of it was dynamited in the 19th century. It originally included five minarets, several mausoleums, mosques, and madrasas. Emergency preservation work has been undertaken to stabilize remaining structures.^[19]
Musalla Minarets of Herat: Iconic towering structures, some of which are still standing despite centuries of conflict and neglect. UNESCO and Afghan authorities are actively working to stabilize the remaining minarets, such as the Fifth Minaret, which are threatened by modern traffic vibrations.^[27]

Sacred Sites & Repositories

The city's spiritual and intellectual heritage is preserved in its numerous mosques, mausoleums, and museums, each telling a unique story of faith, scholarship, and art.

Jumu'ah Mosque (Friday Mosque of Herat): One of Afghanistan's oldest and most significant mosques, built by Ghiyasuddin Ghori in 1201.^[13]
Mausoleum of Gawhar Shad: The tomb of the influential Timurid queen, part of the Musalla Complex, which has undergone preservation efforts.^[19]
Mausoleum of Khwajah Abdullah Ansari: A shrine dedicated to the renowned 11th-century Persian Sufi poet and mystic, rebuilt by Shahrokh around 1425.^[13]
Tomb of Jami: The resting place of Nur ud-Din Jami, a celebrated 15th-century Persian Sufi poet.
Herat Museum: Located within the Herat Citadel, it houses artifacts reflecting the region's vast history.
Jihad Museum: Dedicated to the history of the Afghan resistance.
Jewish Cemetery: A remnant of Herat's ancient Jewish community, with conservation work approved for the Yu Aw Synagogue in the old city.^[28]

Urban Spaces & Education

Beyond its ancient core, Herat offers modern amenities and educational institutions, reflecting its ongoing development and commitment to learning.

Neighborhoods: Key areas include Shahr-e Naw (Downtown), Welayat (Office of the governor), Qol-Ordue (Army's HQ), Farqa (Army's HQ), Darwaze Khosh, Chaharsu, Pul-e Rangine, Sufi-abad, New-abad, Pul-e malaan, Thakhte Safar, Howz-e-Karbas, Baramaan, Darwaze-ye Qandahar, Darwaze-ye Iraq, and Darwaze Az Kordestan.
Parks: Park-e Taraki, Park-e Millat, and Khane-ye Jihad Park provide green spaces for residents.
Herat University: A prominent institution of higher education, contributing to the intellectual life of the city.
Foreign Consulates: India, Iran, and Pakistan maintain consulates in Herat, underscoring its regional importance for trade, military, and political ties. The U.S. also established a consulate to strengthen relations and support development.^[29]

Demographic Insights

Population and Ethnic Composition

Herat's population was estimated at 592,902 in 2021, making it a significant urban center in Afghanistan.^[2] The city and its province are characterized by a diverse ethnic makeup. According to a 2023 CSSF Report, Pashtuns constitute the majority, accounting for 40% of the provincial population, alongside notable Tajik, Hazara, and Uzbek minorities.^[30]

Linguistic Landscape

Persian is the indigenous language of Herat, with the local dialect, known as Herātī, belonging to the Khorāsānī cluster of Persian dialects. This dialect shares strong similarities with those spoken in eastern Iran, particularly Mashhad and Khorasan Province, which borders Herat. Herātī serves as the lingua franca within the city. Pashto, the native language of the Pashtuns, is also widely understood, with the local variant being a form of Western Pashto, common in Kandahar and other parts of southern and western Afghanistan.^[31]

Religious Affiliations & Historical Communities

Religiously, Shia Islam is practiced by the majority in Herat, while Sunni Muslims constitute a minority.^[32] Historically, Herat was home to an ancient Jewish community, with approximately 280 families residing there in 1948. Most of this community emigrated to Israel that year, and by 1992, the community had vanished. Four former synagogues in the city's old quarter, neglected for decades, were renovated by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in the late 2000s, with three converted into schools and nurseries. In 2022, the Taliban government approved conservation work on the Yu Aw Synagogue, and the Jewish cemetery is actively maintained.^[28]

Economy & Infrastructure

Air Transport

Herat International Airport, originally constructed by U.S. engineers in the 1960s, played a significant role during the Soviet-Afghan War. Although bombed in late 2001 during Operation Enduring Freedom, it was subsequently rebuilt and upgraded. As of August 2014, the airport offered regularly scheduled direct flights to international destinations such as Delhi, Dubai, and Mashhad, as well as various domestic airports within Afghanistan, including Kabul.^[33]

Rail Development

Proposals for rail connections to and from Herat have a long history, dating back to "The Great Game" of the 19th century and recurring in the 1970s and 1980s. Concrete progress began in 2002 when Iran and the Asian Development Bank announced funding for a railway linking Torbat-e Heydarieh in Iran to Herat. This project evolved into a 191 km (119 mi) railway from Khaf, Iran, designed for both cargo and passengers, with construction on the Iranian side commencing in 2006. Work on the Afghan side is underway, with an estimated completion by March 2018, and there is potential for further extension across Afghanistan to Sher Khan Bandar.^[34]

Road Networks

Herat is a crucial node in Afghanistan's road network, facilitating regional and international trade and connectivity. The AH76 highway connects Herat to Maymana and the northern regions. The AH77 extends eastward towards Chaghcharan and northward to Mary in Turkmenistan. Furthermore, Highway 1, an integral part of the Asian Highway AH1, links Herat to Mashhad in Iran to the northwest and southward via the Kandahar–Herat Highway to Delaram. These roads are strategically important, with the route to Iran through Islam Qala generating substantial customs revenue for Afghanistan.^[35]

Sports & Recreation

Professional Teams

Herat is home to professional sports teams that compete at national levels, fostering local talent and community engagement in athletics.

Club	League	Sport	Venue	Established
Hindukush Stars	Shpageeza Cricket League	Cricket	Herat Cricket Ground	2021
Toofan Harirod F.C.	Afghan Premier League	Football	Herat Stadium	2012

Sporting Venues

The city provides dedicated facilities for sports, supporting both professional and amateur athletic pursuits.

Herat Cricket Ground: A venue for cricket matches, including those of the Hindukush Stars.
Herat Stadium: Primarily used for football, serving as the home ground for Toofan Harirod F.C.

Notable Figures

Rulers & Statesmen

Herat has been the birthplace or a significant center for numerous influential rulers and political figures who shaped the course of regional and imperial history.

Tahir ibn Husayn: 9th-century Abbasid Caliphate army general and founder of the Tahirid dynasty.
Ghiyasuddin Muhammad: Emperor of the Ghurid dynasty (1163–1202).
Mīrzā Shāhrūkh bin Tīmur Barlas: Emperor of the Timurid dynasty of Herat, son of Timur.
Abu Sa'id Mirza: Ruler of the Timurid Empire in the mid-15th century.
Mīrzā Husseyn Bāyqarāh: Emperor of the Timurid dynasty of Herat.
Shāh Abbās The Great: Emperor of Safavid Persia, born in Herat.
Ahmad Shah Durrani: Founder of the Durrani Empire.
Emir Dost Mohammad Khan: Founder of the Barakzai dynasty, buried in Herat.
Ismail Khan: Former governor of Herat Province and Minister of Water and Energy.

Poets & Scholars

The city has been a beacon of intellectual and artistic endeavor, producing or hosting many celebrated poets, scientists, and religious scholars whose works continue to resonate.

Asjadi: 10th-11th century royal Persian poet at the Ghaznavid court.
Khwājah Abdullāh al-Herawi al-Ansārī: Influential 11th-century Persian Sufi poet.
Nūr ud-Dīn Jāmī: Renowned 15th-century Persian Sufi poet.
Nizām ud-Din ‘Alī Shīr Herawi: Famous poet and scientist of the Timurid era.
Abu Mansur Muvaffak Harawi: 10th-century Persian physician.
Abolfadl Harawi: 10th-century astronomer, originally from Herat.
Taftazani: 14th-century Muslim polymath.
Ustād Kamāl ud-Dīn Behzād: Considered the greatest of medieval Persian painters.
Mir Ali Heravi: Prominent 16th-century Persian calligrapher.
Nadia Anjuman: (1981–2005) contemporary poet writing in Dari.

Athletes & Other Figures

Herat's influence extends to modern sports and other significant individuals who have left their mark.

Nadia Nadim: Afghan-Danish football player, recognized as one of the most influential Afghan female footballers.
Gowhar Shad: Influential wife of Shāh Rūkh Mīrzā, known for her patronage of architecture.
Zablon Simintov: Believed to be the last remaining Jew to have lived in Afghanistan.
Alka Sadat: Film producer born in Herat.
Sonita Alizadeh: Rapper and activist.

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References

Abu Jaâfar Muá¸¥ammad ibn Jarir á¹¬abari, TaÊ¾rikh al-rosul waâl-moluk, pp. 2904-6

The Encyclopaedia of Islam, Brill Publishers, Vol.3: H-Iram, 1986, Leiden, pp. 177

Moqaddasi (Maqdesi), Aá¸¥san al-taqÄsim fi maÊ¿rifat al-aqÄlim, ed. M. J. de Goeje, Leiden, 1906, p. 307;

Afghanistan: The First Five Years of Soviet Occupation, by J. Bruce Amstutz â Page 133 & 145

A good description of the sites, including former afgahani jews who lived there, and of some locals, could be seen at "Quest for the lost tribes", a film by Simcha Jacobovici.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Herat Wikipedia page

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This is not professional historical, geopolitical, or cultural advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for in-depth academic research, expert consultation, or official government resources. Always refer to primary sources, peer-reviewed scholarly articles, and reputable historical and geopolitical analyses for comprehensive understanding. Never disregard established academic consensus or expert opinion because of something you have read on this website.

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Herat Unveiled

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What is Herat? 📍

🌍 A Strategic Oasis City

🔗 Crossroads of Civilizations

💎 The Pearl of Khorasan

Historical Epochs 📜

🏛️ Ancient Foundations

🕌 Islamic Ascendancy

🌟 Medieval Golden Age

⚔️ Modern Transformations

Geography & Climate 🏞️

🌬️ Cold Semi-Arid Environment

💨 Seasonal Wind Patterns

🌡️ Climatic Data Overview

Places of Interest 🗺️

🏛️ Historic Monuments

🕌 Sacred Sites & Repositories

🌳 Urban Spaces & Education

Demographic Insights 👥

📈 Population and Ethnic Composition

🗣️ Linguistic Landscape

🙏 Religious Affiliations & Historical Communities

Economy & Infrastructure 🏗️

✈️ Air Transport

🚆 Rail Development

🛣️ Road Networks

Sports & Recreation 🏆

⚽ Professional Teams

🏟️ Sporting Venues

Notable Figures 🌟

👑 Rulers & Statesmen

✍️ Poets & Scholars

🏅 Athletes & Other Figures

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is Herat?

A Strategic Oasis City

Crossroads of Civilizations

The Pearl of Khorasan

Historical Epochs

Ancient Foundations

Islamic Ascendancy

Medieval Golden Age

Modern Transformations

Geography & Climate

Cold Semi-Arid Environment

Seasonal Wind Patterns

Climatic Data Overview

Places of Interest

Historic Monuments

Sacred Sites & Repositories

Urban Spaces & Education

Demographic Insights

Population and Ethnic Composition

Linguistic Landscape

Religious Affiliations & Historical Communities

Economy & Infrastructure

Air Transport

Rail Development

Road Networks

Sports & Recreation

Professional Teams

Sporting Venues

Notable Figures

Rulers & Statesmen

Poets & Scholars

Athletes & Other Figures

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice