Haji Piyada, Archaeological ruins in Balkh, Afghanistan.
Haji Piyada is a mud-brick mosque structure in Balkh measuring roughly 20 meters on each side. Its interior was originally divided into nine compartments, some covered by domes that have partially collapsed over time.
The structure was built in 794 under Abbasid governor Fazl ibn Yahya on the site of a former Buddhist complex. This transition marked a turning point in the religious and architectural history of the region.
The interior walls display ornate stucco work that reflects Abbasid design patterns adapted to local building traditions. These decorations show how early Islamic craftspeople combined regional techniques with their own artistic vision.
A metal protective roof covers the building, shielding it from rain and weathering throughout the year. Visitors should expect uneven ground and collapsed sections that make exploring the site challenging.
The structure ranks among Afghanistan's oldest standing Islamic buildings and remains a rare example of early mosque architecture. International archaeological teams conduct ongoing preservation work to maintain it for future generations.
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