Visit Balkh


Balkh is a city in northern Afghanistan located on the banks of the Balkh River. The city is well known for its rich history and cultural heritage, having been home to various empires such as the Greco-Bactrian Empire and the Kushan Empire. It has also served as an important religious center due to its ancient Zoroastrian temples, Islamic Mosques, Buddhist ruins and Sufi shrines.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Balkh is the Shrine of Khwaja Abdullah Ansari, which is a major pilgrimage site for devotees of Sufism. It was built in honor of one of Afghanistan's most revered Sufi saints who lived here during the 11th century. Additionally, visitors can explore the many archaeological sites around Balkh that include pre-Islamic structures such as fortresses and towers, as well as remnants from Alexander the Great's empire.

A fascinating historical fact about Balkh is that it was home to an academy founded by Aristotle in 326 BC where he taught his student Alexander the Great before departing on his famous expedition into India. This academy has since been rebuilt and stands today as a testament to this momentous occasion in history.
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