Nissa

Nisa: The Ancient Capital of Parthia

Located just 18 kilometers from Ashgabat, on the outskirts of Bagir village, lie the remarkable ruins of the ancient settlement of Nisa. Once the capital of the Parthian Empire, which thrived from the 3rd century B.C. to the 3rd century A.D., Nisa offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. The historical site is divided into two main archaeological areas: Old Nisa and New Nisa.

Old Nisa, formerly known as Mitridatkert, is particularly enticing to visitors. This ancient fortress, covering 14 hectares, is designed in the shape of an irregular pentagon and features a formidable bastion. The fortifications are substantial, with walls up to 9 meters thick, reinforced by 43 rectangular towers.

Old Nisa was home to various palatial and temple structures and served as a site for festivals honoring the revered Arsacid dynasty—the Parthian rulers. Within Old Nisa, there were two major architectural complexes: the northern and southern. The northern complex, which housed wine storage and the imperial treasury, has largely disappeared. The southern complex, however, remains the primary attraction of Nisa.

Three key features of the southern complex draw tourists:

  1. The Great Tower: This impressive two-story structure was not only a dominant feature of the Nisa complex but also stood out across the surrounding landscape, visible from several kilometers away. Its vaulted walls and intricate mud-brickwork, combined with the thoughtful and cohesive design of its architecture, continue to captivate visitors with its historical significance.

  2. The Ruins of Columns and Walls: These remnants, standing 2-3 meters high, likely belonged to the grandest room of the temple complex, which was adorned with statues of venerated Parthian kings.

  3. The Circular Hall: With a diameter of 17 meters, this unique architectural feature highlights the original and unparalleled design of Old Nisa. The architectural style of Old Nisa represents a harmonious blend of ancient Greek, Roman, and Oriental influences, skillfully adapted by local builders to create a distinctive and innovative structure. Old Nisa flourished until the 3rd century B.C. during the Arsacid dynasty.

New Nisa, in contrast, was a thriving settlement known for its aristocratic residences and lush gardens. Despite its initial prosperity, the city fell into disuse after the Sasanid conquest. It remained deserted for over two centuries until it was restored in the late 5th century by the Sasanid king Firuz, who recognized its strategic value. Nisa later became part of the Arabian Caliphate in 651. However, like many other Central Asian cities, Nisa was severely impacted by the Mongol invasion in 1220.

Sultan Kala Palace

Turkmenistan in 10 days

From$2,600
10 Days / 9 Nights

Discover Ashgabat’s marble architecture
Camp by Darvaza gas crater
Visit Nohur’s tribal cemetery
Tour historical sites in Kunya-Urgench
Explore Merv’s ancient trade center

Explore Turkmenistan’s rich history and natural beauty in this 10-day tour. From the modern marvels of Ashgabat to the ancient ruins of Merv and the breathtaking Darvaza gas crater, experience the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
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