Nisa

Nisa is an ancient city in the Ashgabat region that covers a large area with remains of palaces, temples, and fortress walls. The ruins sit on the northern slopes of the Kopet Dag mountains and reveal the layout of a former capital.

A powerful dynasty founded this site as their first capital in the 3rd century BCE. The empire later shifted its center of power elsewhere, and this location lost its central role after about 200 years of rule.

The site was a center for royal ceremonies and celebrations. Visitors can see remains of monuments that blend Persian and Greek artistic traditions.

The site lies west of Ashgabat and is organized into accessible areas for visitors. Guided tours help explain the ancient structures and their purpose.

Ceramic vessels suggesting intensive wine production were found in large numbers and show the daily life of inhabitants. These discoveries reveal how important certain beverages were in that society.

Location: Hyrcania

GPS coordinates: 37.95115,58.21241

Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:25