The Ruins of Abiverd an ancient city located in modern-day Turkmenistan, offers a glimpse into the once-thriving civilizations of Central Asia. Situated between Ashgabat and the border with Iran, near the foothills of the Kopet-Dag Mountains, Abiverd was part of a key trade network along the Silk Road, which connected the East and West.
The origins of Abiverd trace back to the early medieval period, with archaeological evidence suggesting it was already a significant settlement by the 7th century AD. However, like many cities of Central Asia, Abiverd’s fortunes waned with the decline of the Silk Road and repeated invasions, including those by the Mongols in the 13th century. By the 15th century, it was largely abandoned, left to ruin by shifting trade routes and natural desertification.
Today, the ruins of Abiverd are marked by remnants of its city walls, large earthen mounds where fortifications once stood, and traces of buildings, including mosques and homes. The city’s defensive structures, like its thick walls and gates, remain prominent, offering insight into the military importance of Abiverd in its heyday.
Though largely eroded by time, the ruins reflect the grandeur of Abiverd’s past. Pottery shards, coins, and other artifacts have been found on-site, many of which are preserved in Turkmenistan’s national museums.
Abiverd is an evocative symbol of Turkmenistan’s ancient history and its place within the broader context of the Silk Road’s cultural and economic exchange.