Merv, Archaeological site in Mary, Turkmenistan
Multiple walled cities from different periods form this archaeological complex along the ancient Silk Road, featuring fortifications and administrative structures.
The city reached its peak in the 12th century with a population of 500,000 people before being destroyed by Mongol forces in 1221.
The archaeological site contains remains of Buddhist temples, Islamic mosques, and Zoroastrian structures, reflecting centuries of religious diversity.
Visitors can explore five distinct archaeological areas, including Erk Gala, Gäwürgala, Soltangala, and Abdyllahangala, each representing different time periods.
The excavations revealed advanced water management systems with underground channels that sustained this massive urban center in the middle of the desert.
Location: Mary Region
Website: https://medeniyet.gov.tm/tk/sigle-news/41
GPS coordinates: 37.66765,62.16969
Latest update: May 26, 2025 19:16
Turkmenistan features diverse natural sites and monuments: the Darvaza crater with its perpetual fire, ancient sites of Merv and Nisa, ornate mausoleums, Kow-Ata underground lake, Yangykala canyon with colorful cliffs, the Kopet Dag mountains, and the Karakum desert. The capital Ashgabat showcases contemporary architecture in white marble.
Sultan Sanjar's mausoleum
646 m
Altyndepe
178.4 km
Gunar Tepe
59.4 km
Repetek Biosphere State Reserve
111.4 km
Iran–Turkmenistan Friendship Dam
211.3 km
Sharaf Caravanserai
206.1 km
Hanhowuz Reservoir
93.9 km
Sun Palace
225.5 km
Kabud Gonbad Mosque
225.2 km
Tomb of Baba Loghman
152.6 km
Great Kyz Kala
2.1 km
Pokrovskaya Church
28.9 km
Sarakhs Special Economic Zone
154.5 km
Mary Provincial Regional and History Museum
29.3 km
Forud Castle
232.6 km
Imamzadeh Yahya (Meyami)
240.2 km
State ornithological wildlife sanctuary "Dengizkul"
237 km
Meane-Baba-Mausoleum
178.5 km
Naderi Dam
221.8 km
Qarasu Waterfall
234.1 km
Mahi Caravanserai
240 km
Abgarm Caravanserai
227.2 km
Arghun Shah Gate
228.9 km
Abgarm Waterfall
227.6 km
Kalat-e Naderi Watch Towers
224.7 km
Erk Kala
2 km
Zavin Dam
227.3 km
Arghun Shah Tower
228.8 kmReviews
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