In ancient times, the picturesque Hissar Valley located on the territory of the modern state of Tajikistan was well-known to every eastern vendor as the famous caravan road, the Great Silk Road, ran right here. Today, these lands attract travelers from around the world by perfectly preserved ruins of a once-powerful stone fortress.

The Hisor defensive fortress was located in the Hissar State Natural Reserve, belonged to the emir of the Emirate of Bukhara, and consisted of several ancient buildings surrounded by protective walls, more than a meter thick, with loopholes for guns and rifles. The impressive gates with two massive round towers and a high pointed arch made of burnt brick served as the entrance to the spacious courtyard of the bek’s residence. Even today, the fortress gates make a strong impression on all travelers and give a notion of the grandiose ancient architecture of Central Asia.

There are also two old madrasahs of the 17th and 18th centuries and the medieval mausoleum of the greatest lord dating back to the 16th century. Unfortunately, scientists have not found out yet who is buried in the old tomb. But the most important attraction is considered the Sangin Mosque of the 12th century, the oldest building on the territory of the fortress. Its distinctive feature is several huge earthenware jugs embedded in stone walls. Thus, they served as resonators thanks to which the mosque had incredible acoustics. Besides, there was a beautiful flower garden and swimming pool, as well as long brick staircases leading up to the magnificent palace. In front of the mosque, the bustling life of the market square with a large caravanserai and many shops was in full swing.

Only ruins recall the former beauty and grandeur of the old defensive complex. And they can also tell many secrets and mysterious stories of the great past of the fortress.