Cyropolis

Cyropolis is an ancient settlement in northern Tajikistan with remains spanning multiple periods, including residences, defensive walls, and trade routes. The excavation areas spread across a large site and reveal layers of different settlement phases stacked on top of each other.

The city was founded around 544 BC by Cyrus the Great as a northeastern fortress of the Persian Empire. Alexander the Great later conquered it in 329 BC during his campaign in Central Asia.

The archaeological findings show traces of Persian and Greek communities living together in this ancient trading hub. Visitors can walk through the excavation areas and see residential foundations that reflect this cultural blend.

Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the excavation areas are uneven and still being actively researched. It helps to explore the site with a knowledgeable guide to understand the different structures properly.

During the siege by Alexander's troops, the attackers used a dried-up waterway as a secret entrance into the city. This tactical vulnerability is still visible in the landscape today and shows how natural features shaped military decisions.