Merv State Historical and Cultural Reserve: 10 Things to Do
The Merv State Historical and Cultural Reserve in Mary, Turkmenistan is an incredible place to explore. Located in the middle of the Karakum Desert, it was once the largest city in the world and a major trading center on the Silk Road. The ruins of the ancient city are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fascinating place to explore. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Merv State Historical and Cultural Reserve.
1. Explore the Ruins of the Ancient City: The ruins of the ancient city of Merv are located in the center of the reserve and are an incredible sight to behold. The city was built in the 7th century and was once the largest city in the world. You can explore the ruins and imagine what life was like in the ancient city.
2. Visit the Mausoleums: The mausoleums of Merv are located throughout the reserve and are a must-see for any visitor. The mausoleums are beautifully decorated and tell the story of the city’s past.
3. See the Monuments: The monuments of Merv are scattered throughout the reserve and are a great way to learn about the city’s history. The monuments include the mausoleums of Sultan Sanjar, the Gur-e-Amir mausoleum, and the mausoleum of Sultan Ahmed.
4. Visit the Museum: The Merv State Historical and Cultural Reserve has a museum that is dedicated to the history of the city. The museum has exhibits on the history of the city, the culture of the people, and the architecture of the monuments.
5. Shop at the Bazaars: The bazaars of Merv are a great place to find local crafts and souvenirs. You can find traditional Turkmen carpets, pottery, jewelry, and other items.
6. Visit the Mosque of Sultan Sanjar: The Mosque of Sultan Sanjar is located in the center of the reserve and is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. The mosque was built in the 12th century and is well worth a visit.
7. Take a Camel Ride: A camel ride is a great way to explore the desert and experience the culture of the Turkmen people. You can find camel rides in the reserve and get a unique perspective of the area.
8. Visit the Ancient Citadel: The ancient citadel of Merv is located in the center of the reserve and is a great place to explore. The citadel was built in the 11th century and was once the home of the rulers of the city.
9. Explore the Desert: The Karakum Desert is located in the reserve and is a great place to explore. The desert is full of sand dunes and is an incredible sight to behold.
10. Visit the Local Markets: The local markets of Merv are a great place to buy local food and crafts. The markets are full of fresh produce, spices, and other items that are unique to the area.
The Merv State Historical and Cultural Reserve is an incredible place to explore and is full of history and culture. Whether you’re looking to explore the ruins of the ancient city, visit the monuments, or take a camel ride, there are plenty of things to do in the reserve.