Chehel Burj
Chehel Burj is an ancient and historical fortress located in Nimroz Province, Afghanistan. Throughout history, this fortress was used for battles and defense. It stands as an important symbol of Nimroz’s culture and civilization. Chehel Burj is situated near the Helmand River, about 5 kilometers from the city of Zaranj. It is one of the oldest surviving fortresses with remaining traces still visible today.
Construction History and Structure
This was built approximately 800 years ago during the era of Malik Shah and Shah Shamsuddin. It was constructed for defense against enemies. Its walls were thick and high.
The fortress has four towers, each built at a corner. The distance between each tower is about 100 meters. The thickness of the walls ranges from about 1.5 to 2 meters. Signs of this strong construction are still visible to this day.
Historical and Cultural Importance
Chehel Burj was not just a military fortress; people also lived there. At various times, it served as a center for social and cultural activities of the people.
Because of its proximity to the Helmand River, the surrounding lands were fertile, allowing people to farm there. For this reason, Chehel Burj was also referred to as the “Heart of Sistan and Nimroz.”
Destruction and Current State
In recent years, many parts of this place have been destroyed due to floods and conflicts. Although it is not entirely clear why the fortress was never fully preserved, the remaining towers still hold significant value.
Currently, some efforts are underway to preserve and restore the fortress. Additionally, research is ongoing to better understand its history and structure.
Conclusion
Chehel Burj is an important historical site in Afghanistan. It must be preserved, as it is not just a part of history but also a valuable memory of the people’s culture and past. By preserving it, future generations can also connect with their heritage.
Chehel Burj holds value not only as a fortress but also as a cultural and social center. Its preservation is a great responsibility for the community—not only to protect historical values but also to pass down the cultural heritage of the region to future generations.
The historical structure and architecture of this fortress represent the progress and struggles of various eras in Afghanistan. If Chehel Burj is restored and maintained, it can become not only a historical attraction but also a cultural and tourist center that draws public attention.