Turkmenistan Ashgabat History: A Rich and Storied Past
Turkmenistan, a country located in Central Asia, is a land of rich history and culture. The capital of the country, Ashgabat, is a city that has seen many changes over the centuries. The city has seen the rise and fall of empires, the birth of religions, and the development of a unique Turkmen culture. This article will explore the history of Ashgabat, from its earliest origins to its modern-day incarnation.
The earliest known settlement in the area that is now Ashgabat was founded in the 5th century BC by the Persians. The city was named Nisa, and it served as a trading post on the Silk Road. The city was conquered by Alexander the Great in 330 BC, and it became part of the Seleucid Empire. In the 2nd century BC, Nisa was destroyed by the Parthians.
In the early 8th century, the area was conquered by the Arab Caliphate. The city was renamed Ashgabat and served as an important trading hub for the region. In the 12th century, the city was conquered by the Seljuk Turks, who established the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum. The city was then conquered by the Mongols in 1221, and it became part of the Ilkhanate.
In the 15th century, the city was conquered by the Uzbeks, and it became part of the Khanate of Khiva. In the 18th century, the city was conquered by the Russians, and it became part of the Russian Empire. In the 19th century, the city was made the capital of the Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic.
Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Ashgabat has seen a period of rapid modernization. The city has become a center of commerce and industry, and it is home to numerous government buildings, universities, and museums. The city is also home to a vibrant nightlife and a variety of cultural attractions.
The history of Ashgabat is a long and storied one, and it is a history that has been shaped by the many different cultures that have called it home over the centuries. From its earliest origins to its modern-day incarnation, Ashgabat has been a city of many faces, and its rich history is a testament to the resilience and diversity of the Turkmen people.