Explore Balkh

Balkh Province, with its capital Mazar-e-Sharif, is one of Afghanistan’s oldest and most historically and culturally significant regions. Known as the (Mother of Cities), Balkh has been continuously inhabited for over 3,000 years and was a major center of trade, learning, and culture along the ancient Silk Road, connecting Central Asia, Persia, and the Indian subcontinent. Throughout history, it attracted scholars, poets, and artisans, making it a hub for intellectual and artistic exchange. The provincial capital, Mazar-e-Sharif, is well-known for its vibrant markets, welcoming residents, and the iconic Blue Mosque, which stands as a remarkable example of Afghan architecture with its intricate turquoise tiles and spacious courtyards. Beyond the city, the ruins of ancient Balkh reveal its historical importance, including remnants of old city walls, fortifications, and palaces that highlight centuries of civilization and urban planning. The province is also home to the Haji Piyada Mosque (Noh Gumbad) and the Bala Hissar of Balkh, showcasing some of the earliest Islamic and pre-Islamic architectural achievements in the region. Life in Balkh reflects a balance between historical traditions and modern community life, where tea houses, local workshops, and open markets play a central role in social interaction. Residents are known for their hospitality, community cooperation, and dedication to preserving traditional crafts such as carpet weaving, embroidery, pottery, metalwork, calligraphy, and miniature painting, which continue to be practiced and taught across generations. The local cuisine mirrors the cultural richness of the area, including dishes such as Kabuli Pulao, kebabs, mantu, ash, and fresh seasonal fruits and nuts, often shared communally in homes and gatherings. The province’s surrounding landscapes consist of fertile plains, agricultural fields, and gentle hills that support diverse crops, while the Hari River and other natural areas add scenic beauty and tranquility. Cultural practices, daily routines, music, poetry, and local festivals maintain the social fabric and artistic identity of the people, making Balkh a living museum of Afghan heritage. Overall, Balkh Province offers a comprehensive view of northern Afghanistan, combining rich historical sites, vibrant cultural life, traditional craftsmanship, welcoming communities, distinctive cuisine, and natural beauty, providing visitors with an authentic and deeply immersive experience of Afghan history, culture, and everyday life.