Short Historical Overview

The Ark fortress is a massive building constructed in 5th century AD, remaining one of the oldest edifices in Central Asia. Originally constructed on a hill that previously served as a settlement, Ark served as a centre of power for centuries. It used to be a well-functioning city within a city: mosques, learning centres, palaces, government offices, and even prisons were constructed in the fortress. In spite of the demolition brought by Mongol conquests, the fortification was restored and functioning until the 1920 Russian invasion.

Structural Insights

Enclosing almost 4 hectares, the stronghold is confined by earthen walls stretching up to 20 metres high. They were covered by clay plaster to prevent erosion caused by precipitation. High position on the hills and well-structured walls which crowned battlements enabled defense of the fortress from invaders.

Fun Fact

Ark was built by Siyovush, a son of a Persian ruler who fell in love with king Afrasiyab’s daughter. Afrasiyab set a condition: to build a palace that would fit within a bull’s skin. Siyovush cut the skin into stripes and made a boundary using those stripes, thereby fitting a fortress within the skin of a bull.