Overview:

Kerki Fortress - Kerki is an ancient fortress situated in the city of Kerki in the Balkan province of Turkmenistan. The fortress lies on the ruins of the ancient city of Gurganj, and is believed to have been constructed around the 8th century CE. The defensive walls of Kerki stand at around 10 meters tall, and the fortification boasts several towers, bastions and gateways. The fortress is believed to have been home to the Gurganjid dynasty, who were patrons of Arab Nasrids and Seljuks. The fortress was eventually destroyed in the early 19th century, and what remains of the site today are scattered ruins. The fortress is currently in the process of being restored. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Turkmenistan
Prominent Features:

is home to the 19th-century Kerki fortress, a mud-brick fortress constructed by the Turkmens as a way to protect and defend themselves against invading forces. The fortress is constructed of thick mud walls in a cross shape and covers an area of more than 7,000 square meters, providing a safe refuge for the inhabitants in times of distress. The fortress is home to three mosques and a defensive wall crowned with nine watch towers that overlook the Amu Darya River. The Kerki fortress is considered an important part of Turkmenistan's cultural and historical heritage. This national monument of Turkmenistan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Kerki Fortress is an ancient fort located in the small village of Kerki in eastern Turkmenistan. It is believed to have been built by the Persians around the 8th century during the Sassanid period. The fort was part of the network of fortifications along the Amu-Darya River, but its exact purpose is unclear. In the 1360s, Kerki was the scene of fighting between the Golden Horde of the Mongols and forces of Timur Lenk. After Tamerlane's forces captured Kerki, it was made a part of the Chagatai Khanate, which is part of the larger Timurid Empire. In the 16th century, Kerki was the site of a battle between the forces of Ubayd Allah Khan, the ruler of the Khanate of Khiva, and those of Shah Abbas I of Persia. Ubayd Allah Khan was victorious and in 1586, he established the Khanate of Khiva in Kerki. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Khanate of Khiva and the Khanate of Bukhara engaged in regular conflicts. In 1873, Usman Khan, the Khan of Khiva, chose Kerki as a strategic point of defence and had the fortifications strengthened and extended. Kerki was the site of a major battle in 1921 during the Central Asian Revolt, when forces loyal to the Bolsheviks defeated the forces of the Khanate of Khiva. After the Russian Revolution, the Kerki Fortress was abandoned and fell into disrepair. Today, Kerki Fortress is a popular spot for tourists looking to experience a bit of history. The site has been partially restored and now features an observation tower and gardens. In addition, visitors can explore the old fort and enjoy the stunning views of the Amu-Darya River. You must visit one of these historical places in Turkmenistan on your Turkmenistan tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Kerki Fortress is a well-preserved fort located in the city of Kerki, Turkmenistan. 2. The fortress was built in the early 19th century to protect against a Persian invasion that never occurred. 3. The site of the fortress is located atop an ancient tell mound. The structure, made of bricks and earthen materials, has four towers and another smaller one. 4. It was constructed with an unusual technique, with the interior of the tower walls made of adobe and the exterior of bricks in order to provide extra strength to the structure. 5. The Kerki Fortress is known for its interlacing geometric patterns on the outside and within the fortress. 6. The entire fortress is decorated with a variety of symbols and shapes, from infinity loops to octagons and hexagons. 7. The Kerki Fortress played a vital role in the 1881-82 Ottoman-Russian War, when a company of Russian troops was stationed inside. 8. The fortress was an important part of Turkmenistan's defense system until 2001, when it was taken out of service as a fort. 9. Today, the Kerki Fortress has been declared a state-protected archaeological and architectural monument by the government of Turkmenistan. 10. It is also a popular tourist attraction and is often featured in the works of artists. Visit one of the famous monuments of Turkmenistan with your friends and family.