Balkh

Balkh is a town in Afghanistan. Historically Balkh is believed to be a centre of the Bactrian Empire, even before the arrival of Alexander the Great. It was destroyed many times over by the likes of Ghengis Khan and Timur-i-lenk.

The town is completely enclosed by its ancient fortifications; brick and mud walls at least 30 feet high and in good condition. They can be climbed giving views of the countryside and the town. At the north end is another larger mound that was the fortress. The walls slope on the outside and are vertical on the inside, giving and impression from the inside of being very tall. Turrets along the walls are in varying states of decay providing glimpses of building techniques.

The town has a central park, where children play soccer or volleyball. At one end are the ruins of a tiled mosque, the other the gate of a madrassa. Again the construction technique of the madrassa can bee seen. As the park is full of trees and small shops surround the part it is difficult to take photos of the madrassa. Full shots of the mosque are easy.