Top 5 Interesting Facts About Kabul
Kabul is the largest and capital city of Afghanistan. It is one of the oldest settlements in the world and is associated with a rich history and culture. Although ravaged by wars and terrorist incidents in recent times, Kabul still hosts numerous architectural and historical wonders that make it an attractive destination. Here is a list of some interesting facts related to Kabul:
5. Kabul Is One Of The World’s Highest Capitals
Kabul is located in the eastern parts of Afghanistan. It is nestled high up in a narrow valley between the lofty mountains of the Hindu Kush range. Kabul has an average elevation of 5,876 feet above sea level, making it one of the world’s highest capital cities.
4. Kabul Was One Of The Ancient World’s Most Developed Cities
Kabul is believed to be at least 3,500 years old. The city was located strategically along the ancient Silk Road. It was under the control of several major powers since the ancient times. The Seleucids, Mauryans, Mughals, and others have ruled in Kabul at different time periods in its long history. Finally, during the rule of the Durrani Empire in the 18th century, Kabul became the capital of Afghanistan. The city is even described in the ancient Hindu Rigveda, one of the world’s oldest religious texts. The Rigveda describes the city as an ‘ideal city’ which was close to people’s vision of a paradise. Art, commerce, and education flourished in Kabul during its Golden Age.
3. Kabul Was Once The Center Of Learning Of Zoroastrianism, Buddhism and Hinduism
Although today, about 99% of the population of Kabul comprises of Muslims, in the past, the city was a major hub of other major world religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Zoroastrianism. It was a major learning center for these religions. At about the 2nd century BC, the majority of Kabul’s population were Buddhists.
2. Today, Kabul Is The Scene Of Many Terror Attacks
Although the city was one of the most well-regarded cities in the world in the past, today, the city is also known for the deadly terror attacks that have killed and maimed thousands of its residents in the late 20th to the 21st century. Deadly bombings have been carried out in the city by several anti-state groups that have devastated the city and permanently scarred the lives of its people. However, currently, despite several barriers to its progress, the city is on the path to recovery and is developing rapidly.
1. Kabul Is A History-Lover’s Paradise
Given its age-old history and rich culture, it is quite apparent that the city houses many historical treasures despite several being destroyed by the various anti-state elements that wreaked havoc on the city in the past few decades. Kabul’s old part is filled with bazaars selling traditional merchandise. Impressive ancient statues dot the old parts of the city. Kabul also has several monuments and buildings that were built hundreds of years back. The tomb of the founder of the Mughal dynasty, Babur, is located in Bagh-e Babur in Kabul. Several impressive palaces, mosques, and gardens also dot the city.
