Herat Citadel may be the first Historical place to visit if you travel to the Herat province.
The Herat Citadel with the local name of Qala-e Ekhteyarudin, also known as the Citadel of Alexender, is located in the center of Herat City.
According to historians, its construction dates back to 330 BC. When Alexender the Great and his army arrived in Afghanistan after the Battle of Gaugamela.
Since then, the Citadel has watched over Herat’s success and setbacks multiple times. Generally to say, the Herat’s Citadel has served as a seat of power, military garrison, Prison, and now as a Herat’s museum.
A few days before when my friends and I visited Qala-e Ekhterarudin, we were amazed by the beautiful ancient architecture and the building. The great monument is located in the heart of Herat city, surrounded by local bazaar.
Inside the Citadel, you see different sections. Some of these sections are closed and some of them are dedicated to Herat’s museum. Additionally, there are wooden gates that led you through the upper enclosure. Overall, the citadel is clean with multiple towers and 5,000 square meters of land. Visitors are seen all over the Citadel while taking photos and enjoying the tremendous view.
Related: Shah Do ShamShera Mosque