Merv Oasis, Ancient settlement remains in Mary region, Turkmenistan
Merv is an archaeological site in the Mary region that displays remains of fortified walls, caravanserais, and mosques from different periods. The landscape is crisscrossed with channels and water systems that supported life in this desert area across millennia.
The site began as a settlement along a major trade route and grew into an important city over centuries. In 1221, it was severely damaged by the Mongol invasion, which fundamentally altered its fate as a populated center.
The oasis served as a hub for scholars and thinkers during the Islamic Golden Age, with structures built to support learning and exchange. Today, visitors can see the foundations of mosques and buildings that reflect this intellectual role.
The site is best explored with guided tours, as the sprawling grounds contain many separate complexes and remains spread across the area. The best time to visit is during cooler months, as desert heat can be intense.
The grounds contain five separate ancient cities from different eras, each with its own archaeological structures in the same location. This layering lets visitors see different building styles and settlement patterns side by side.
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