Gyaur Kala
Gäwür Gala
A square ancient city from the Seleucid to Sasanian periods, with the ruins of a stupa, a Christian church and a mosque, reflecting the diverse faiths of the Silk Road.
Gyaur Kala means “city of the infidels.” It was a Hellenistic city expanded by Antiochus I in the 3rd century BCE, measuring about 2 km per side, and it was Merv’s center in the Sasanian period. Archaeological digs within the city have revealed the westernmost Buddhist monastery and stupa in Central Asia, a Nestorian Christian church, Zoroastrian remains and early mosque ruins, reflecting the religious blending along the Silk Road. The site is large, so it’s best to hire a car to drive the dirt tracks inside the city and ask a guide for commentary.
Opening hours
Open daytime
Nearby sights
- Erk Kala
- Askhab Mausoleums
- Shahriyar Ark
- Yusuf Hamadani Complex
- Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar
- Sultan Kala
- Merv Ice Houses
- Great and Lesser Kyz Kala