Overview:

: The Keshk FortressKeshk, also known as Khashk, is an ancient fort located in the central part of Turkmenistan. Built in the 16th century by local tribes, it is an interesting example of Turkmen architecture and has a long history. The fort is located on a flat low plateau surrounded by a network of deep ravines, and consists of two tiers of walls, one made of mud and one of stone. Each wall is in turn surrounded by a ditch, with a deep moat cutting between them. The fort also includes some small bunkers and an inner keep. This ancient fortress stands as a testimony to the turbulent history of the region and still stands in surprisingly good condition. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Turkmenistan
Prominent Features:

is a historic fortress located in the town of Keshk, near the city of Turkmenbashi. It was built between the 16th and 19th centuries, and is made up of a large stone wall, several towers, and several other settlement buildings. The fortress is an important historically and culturally significant site in Turkmenistan, and is a popular tourist destination, displaying ancient Turkmen architectural styles and remains of ancient pottery. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. Round Mosque - The Round Mosque, also known as the Keshk Khanaka, is an important feature of Keshk Fortress. It is a large, round building with four minarets, a large central dome, and four smaller domes. Built in the 15th century, it served as a place of worship as well as a home for the hakims (governors) who ruled Keshk. It is made of brick and wood, and is decorated with intricate patterns and floral designs. The mosque is considered a symbol of power and strength of Turkmen Empire. Helmet Wall - The Helmet Wall is a highly visible feature of the Keshk Fortress. It is a two-meter tall, twelve-meter wide defensive wall that is covered with engraved images of helmets, swords, and banners, representing the warriors who defended the city. It is believed to have been built in the 16th century, and has been used as a symbol of strength and courage. This national monument of Turkmenistan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Keshk fortress is an ancient fortification located in the Keshk region of Turkmenistan. The fortress is believed to have been built sometime between the 5th and 12th centuries CE and was used as a defensive outpost by the city of Saadet during its rule over the area. The fortress is located in the desert and is an imposing structure made of thick stone walls rising from the surrounding plain. It is roughly 250 meters long and 110 meters wide and was constructed with a complex system of walls, towers, and gates that provided protection from enemies. The name Keshk is thought to come from the Arabic word for "fortress" or "bastion." Since the fortress was located in an area rich in mineral resources, it may have been used as a base for mineral extraction. Soldiers were also probably stationed there to guard the nearby city of Saadet from invaders. The fortress changed hands several times throughout its history. It was captured by the Mongols in the 13th century and remained under their control until the mid-18th century when the Khanate of Khiva took control of the area. After the fall of the khanate in the 19th century, the fortress fell into disuse and eventually crumbled. Today, Keshk fortress is a popular tourist destination. Visitors are drawn to the unique architecture and the striking views of the desert that the fortress provides. The fortress is also a site of archaeological interest, as several artifacts have been discovered there. The fortress is a reminder of the strong presence of the city of Saadet in the area and of its long and storied history. You must visit one of these historical places in Turkmenistan on your Turkmenistan tour

Interesting facts:

1. Keshk Fortress is located near the village of Keshk in the Balkhan region of Turkmenistan. 2. It was built in the 16th century and was the capital of the Khanate of Goklen. 3. Keshk Fortress has an area of 20 hectares and is surrounded by a double wall which is 4 meters thick. 4. The Fortress has an elevation of 95 meters and its walls reach a height of up to 6.7 meters. 5. It is divided into two distinct parts, with a gateway and the gates of the fortress located in the centre. 6. The fortress has four main towers - East Tower, South Tower, West Tower and North Tower. 7. The fortress was constructed by Mohammad Hassan Khan Iravani, a ruler of the Khanate of Goklen, during the late 16th century. 8. Keshk Fortress served as a safe haven and stronghold for the local people during times of conflict and invasion throughout its history. 9. In 2011, Keshk Fortress was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. 10. It is estimated that the fortress was built sometime before the 16th century, making it one of the oldest surviving fortifications in the region. Visit one of the famous monuments of Turkmenistan with your friends and family.