Dayahatyn, Medieval caravanserai in Lebap Region, Turkmenistan
Dayahatyn is a medieval fortress on the Amu Darya riverbank with a square plan measuring about 53 meters on each side. The thick walls are constructed from mud brick and fired brick, creating a solid structure that has endured through the centuries.
The fortress was built in the 9th century under Tahir ibn Husayn as a military stronghold to protect the region. During the Seljuk period in the 11th century, it was transformed into a caravanserai to serve merchant caravans traveling across trade routes.
The entrance displays symmetrical inscriptions from the 11th and 12th centuries honoring important figures in Islamic history. Visitors can see how these details reflect the site's role as a spiritual center for travelers passing through Central Asia.
The site is located about 170 kilometers northwest of Turkmenabat and can be reached by vehicle, though roads in this remote region are basic. Plan your visit during daylight hours to properly view the structure and its architectural features.
Inside the compound is a mosque with Mihrab niches facing Mecca, revealing how the site functioned both as a trading hub and a place of prayer. This religious dimension was important for travelers who stopped here to rest and worship before continuing their journeys.
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