Hissar – The Living History of Tajiks
History
The Hissar Valley is known from historical sources as a territory through which the caravan trade route, the Great Silk Road, passed.
Life in this place began in the Stone Age, in the 4th–3rd millennia BC. Later, the territory of the valley was part of Bactria, and then the Greco-Bactrian and Kushan states. This is evidenced by the remains of ancient settlements and towns discovered by archaeologists. Today, however, only round mounds called "tepa" – "hill" remain of them. During the reign of the Arab Caliphate, the local population adopted Islam.
In the 9th–10th centuries, it was part of the Samanid Empire. For the first time, this territory under the name "Hissar" ("Hisor") is mentioned in the 11th century. At that time, this word denoted a settlement where state troops were stationed, and crafts and a market developed.
In the Middle Ages, Hissar was a city known for its craftsmanship and market center. In the 18th–19th centuries, it turned into the Hissar Bekdom – one of the 28 possessions of the Bukhara Emirate. From these times, the Hissar Fortress remains – the most famous monument of the reserve.
At the beginning of the 20th century, after the fall of the emirate, Hissar was part of the Tajik Soviet Republic. Since September 9, 1991, Hissar has been a district and later became a city within the cities and districts of republican subordination of the Republic of Tajikistan.
The Hissar Valley is known from historical sources as a territory through which the caravan trade route, the Great Silk Road, passed.
Life in this place began in the Stone Age, in the 4th–3rd millennia BC. Later, the territory of the valley was part of Bactria, and then the Greco-Bactrian and Kushan states. This is evidenced by the remains of ancient settlements and towns discovered by archaeologists. Today, however, only round mounds called "tepa" – "hill" remain of them. During the reign of the Arab Caliphate, the local population adopted Islam.
In the 9th–10th centuries, it was part of the Samanid Empire. For the first time, this territory under the name "Hissar" ("Hisor") is mentioned in the 11th century. At that time, this word denoted a settlement where state troops were stationed, and crafts and a market developed.
In the Middle Ages, Hissar was a city known for its craftsmanship and market center. In the 18th–19th centuries, it turned into the Hissar Bekdom – one of the 28 possessions of the Bukhara Emirate. From these times, the Hissar Fortress remains – the most famous monument of the reserve.
At the beginning of the 20th century, after the fall of the emirate, Hissar was part of the Tajik Soviet Republic. Since September 9, 1991, Hissar has been a district and later became a city within the cities and districts of republican subordination of the Republic of Tajikistan.
Hissar Historical and Cultural Reserve
Today, Hissar has more than 87 historical monuments, including 8 monumental, 12 architectural, and 67 archaeological objects.
One of the main attractions of Tajikistan, the Hissar Historical and Cultural Reserve, is located 30 km from Dushanbe (4-5 km from the city of Hissar) on an area of about 86 hectares.
The reserve, organized at the end of the 1980s, includes the following historical monuments:
In the early 20th century, between 100 to 150 students studied at the old madrasa. Classes at the madrasa ceased in 1921.
To the south of the Old Madrasa is the Mausoleum of Makhdumi Azam from the 16th–17th centuries. "Makhdumi Azam" translates to "The Greatest Master" and is not a name but the title of one of the preachers of the Naqshbandi religious movement, who conducted his teachings in this area.
Another notable monument here is the domed mosque of the 12th–16th centuries, "Sangin," which means "Stone." The mosque's name is associated with the fact that its walls are built from stone up to half their height. A unique feature of this structure is the presence of four resonators at the sub-dome level in the form of ceramic jugs without a bottom, embedded into the brickwork. The resonators were intended to enhance the acoustic properties of the interior space where prayers and sermons were conducted.
The mosque "Sangin" is associated with a local legend. It is believed that the construction of the mosque began in the 7th century by order of the righteous Caliph Umar.
Another structure in the complex is the caravanserai (inn) called "Khishtin" (which means "Brick"). The caravanserai, built in the 17th–18th centuries, once consisted of scattered remains of foundations and walls made of burnt brick no higher than one meter. The restorers had only one photograph from 1913, in which the caravanserai was captured in its original form. After thoroughly studying the photograph and other documents describing such structures, the specialists began restoration work, the result of which can be seen today.
Today, Hissar has more than 87 historical monuments, including 8 monumental, 12 architectural, and 67 archaeological objects.
One of the main attractions of Tajikistan, the Hissar Historical and Cultural Reserve, is located 30 km from Dushanbe (4-5 km from the city of Hissar) on an area of about 86 hectares.
The reserve, organized at the end of the 1980s, includes the following historical monuments:
- Hissar Fortress with an arch (gate). The gates were built in the 16th century and later restored.
- Registan (the square in front of the fortress).
- Old Madrasa. A medieval educational institution built in the 16th century. The area of the madrasa is 2,250 m.
- New Madrasa.
- Caravanserai. The brick Caravanserai was built in 1808 during the reign of Saidbi Atolik and served as a hotel.
- Mosque "Chashmai Mohiyon" (Fish Spring). Built in the 8th century. Two verandas and a tower were added in the 14th century. Today, it has been rebuilt in its original appearance.
- Mosque "Sangin".
- Mausoleum "Makhdumi Azam". A historical monument of the 16th century, it was built on the grave of Khoja Muhammad Khayvoki. The area of the mausoleum is 609 sq.m.
- Historical Museum. Located in the building of the old madrasa. Here, the entire nomenclature of monuments and exhibits found during excavations on the territory of the city of Hissar and beyond is stored.
In the early 20th century, between 100 to 150 students studied at the old madrasa. Classes at the madrasa ceased in 1921.
To the south of the Old Madrasa is the Mausoleum of Makhdumi Azam from the 16th–17th centuries. "Makhdumi Azam" translates to "The Greatest Master" and is not a name but the title of one of the preachers of the Naqshbandi religious movement, who conducted his teachings in this area.
Another notable monument here is the domed mosque of the 12th–16th centuries, "Sangin," which means "Stone." The mosque's name is associated with the fact that its walls are built from stone up to half their height. A unique feature of this structure is the presence of four resonators at the sub-dome level in the form of ceramic jugs without a bottom, embedded into the brickwork. The resonators were intended to enhance the acoustic properties of the interior space where prayers and sermons were conducted.
The mosque "Sangin" is associated with a local legend. It is believed that the construction of the mosque began in the 7th century by order of the righteous Caliph Umar.
Another structure in the complex is the caravanserai (inn) called "Khishtin" (which means "Brick"). The caravanserai, built in the 17th–18th centuries, once consisted of scattered remains of foundations and walls made of burnt brick no higher than one meter. The restorers had only one photograph from 1913, in which the caravanserai was captured in its original form. After thoroughly studying the photograph and other documents describing such structures, the specialists began restoration work, the result of which can be seen today.
The Hissar Fortress is associated with several folk legends that the local residents tell. In particular, the famous heroes of Firdousi's immortal work "Shahnameh" – Rustam and Afrasiab, whose battles supposedly took place in these areas, are mentioned. According to legend, the Hissar Fortress was built by Afrasiab for protection against Rustam.
Another legend says that the righteous Caliph Ali came to these places on his horse Dul-dul to preach Islam and stopped on a mountain that is now called Poyi-Dul-dul and is located to the west of Hissar. From the mountain, he lowered a rope to the fortress and, disguised as an acrobat tightrope walker, entered the fortress, but here he was recognized and captured. To free himself from captivity, Ali summoned his horse, who brought his sword Zulfiqar. With the help of this sword, he destroyed all enemies, including the evil sorcerer who owned the fortress at that time.
To reach the historical and cultural reserve, which is an open-air museum preserving material evidence of the centuries-old history and culture of the Tajik people, one can travel from Dushanbe to the village of Hissar by public transport or private taxi. Then, to reach the fortress itself, one can use a passing vehicle or walk.
Next to the fortress, under the shade of two enormous plane trees (Platanus) that are 500–700 years old, there is a teahouse where you can enjoy national dishes and quench your thirst with fragrant green tea in the open air.
Another legend says that the righteous Caliph Ali came to these places on his horse Dul-dul to preach Islam and stopped on a mountain that is now called Poyi-Dul-dul and is located to the west of Hissar. From the mountain, he lowered a rope to the fortress and, disguised as an acrobat tightrope walker, entered the fortress, but here he was recognized and captured. To free himself from captivity, Ali summoned his horse, who brought his sword Zulfiqar. With the help of this sword, he destroyed all enemies, including the evil sorcerer who owned the fortress at that time.
To reach the historical and cultural reserve, which is an open-air museum preserving material evidence of the centuries-old history and culture of the Tajik people, one can travel from Dushanbe to the village of Hissar by public transport or private taxi. Then, to reach the fortress itself, one can use a passing vehicle or walk.
Next to the fortress, under the shade of two enormous plane trees (Platanus) that are 500–700 years old, there is a teahouse where you can enjoy national dishes and quench your thirst with fragrant green tea in the open air.
Nature and Resorts
In the northern part of Hissar, there are uniquely beautiful mountain gorges, rivers with crystal-clear water, and springs with healing mineral water.
About 25 kilometers northwest of Dushanbe, and 9 kilometers north of the main Dushanbe–Termez road, the largest resort in Tajikistan, "Shohambari," is located in a picturesque place among the Hissar hills.
The history of "Shohambari" and its activities began in 1952. The sanatorium quickly gained wide popularity throughout Tajikistan and the former Soviet Union.
This resort remains popular among the local population and guests of Tajikistan to this day. Here, there is an opportunity to rest and improve health in the lap of nature all year round – the temperature of the mineral water of "Shohambari" ranges from +37 to +42 degrees Celsius.
The sanatorium has 550 luxury apartments, allowing it to serve more than 1,000 clients simultaneously.
In this same area, there are other wonderful resorts such as "Saturn," "Sangchashma," and "Fontan Shohambari."
About 25 kilometers northwest of Dushanbe, and 9 kilometers north of the main Dushanbe–Termez road, the largest resort in Tajikistan, "Shohambari," is located in a picturesque place among the Hissar hills.
The history of "Shohambari" and its activities began in 1952. The sanatorium quickly gained wide popularity throughout Tajikistan and the former Soviet Union.
This resort remains popular among the local population and guests of Tajikistan to this day. Here, there is an opportunity to rest and improve health in the lap of nature all year round – the temperature of the mineral water of "Shohambari" ranges from +37 to +42 degrees Celsius.
The sanatorium has 550 luxury apartments, allowing it to serve more than 1,000 clients simultaneously.
In this same area, there are other wonderful resorts such as "Saturn," "Sangchashma," and "Fontan Shohambari."
Livestock Farming
Hissar is famous for its breed of sheep. Hissar rams are the largest among all cultured breeds of rams. This breed is widespread in Central Asia, mainly in Tajikistan. The breed was developed in the mountain pastures of Hissar through folk selection. The unique characteristics of the Hissar breed are due to complete isolation from other species and special natural conditions in the breeding area. The Hissar ram is even larger than the so-called "Lincoln ram." Hissar rams reach up to 85 centimeters at the withers, and ewes up to 80 centimeters. The chest depth is on average about 35 centimeters.
Hissar is famous for its breed of sheep. Hissar rams are the largest among all cultured breeds of rams. This breed is widespread in Central Asia, mainly in Tajikistan. The breed was developed in the mountain pastures of Hissar through folk selection. The unique characteristics of the Hissar breed are due to complete isolation from other species and special natural conditions in the breeding area. The Hissar ram is even larger than the so-called "Lincoln ram." Hissar rams reach up to 85 centimeters at the withers, and ewes up to 80 centimeters. The chest depth is on average about 35 centimeters.
Traditional Folk Crafts
Hissar artisans have long produced various types of fabrics, especially renowned was the Hissar alacha "Abri Karatag," "Alochayi siyohkor," "Alochayi pusti mor," and so on. The patterns applied had special names such as "Mortob" — a winding snake, "Doiragul" — a round flower, "Pancha" — a hand, and many other names. The craftsmen continue the traditional crafts of their ancestors to this day, producing magnificent fabrics and handmade carpets, traditional ceramic, jewelry items, musical instruments, and much more.
Hissar artisans have long produced various types of fabrics, especially renowned was the Hissar alacha "Abri Karatag," "Alochayi siyohkor," "Alochayi pusti mor," and so on. The patterns applied had special names such as "Mortob" — a winding snake, "Doiragul" — a round flower, "Pancha" — a hand, and many other names. The craftsmen continue the traditional crafts of their ancestors to this day, producing magnificent fabrics and handmade carpets, traditional ceramic, jewelry items, musical instruments, and much more.
Everything for Guests
The land of Hissar has long been famous for its fertility and beautiful fruit orchards. The unique taste and aroma of melons, watermelons, apricots, grapes, and peaches attract city dwellers and tourists to the central market.
For food lovers and fishing enthusiasts, dozens of special recreation spots have been built in Hissar where you can spend a great time while tasting delicious fish dishes.
Appetizing dishes can be tasted in 7 restaurants and teahouses, as well as in other dining places in Hissar.
Perhaps the most popular today is the "Ilhom" teahouse in the center of Hissar. Connoisseurs from all over the republic come here to taste the delicious "tandur kabob" (a meat dish cooked in a traditional oven — tandur). At the "Shomi Saadi" restaurant, dishes of both Eastern and Western cuisine are prepared. Service is available 24 hours a day.
Delicious pilaf, national dishes "Oshi burida," "Khomsurbo," and mantu are offered at the "1001 Nights" restaurant.
Near the Hissar Fortress, visitors are offered juicy kebabs, other meat dishes, soups, and salads at the "Sharshara" and "Labi daryo" teahouse-restaurants.
The land of Hissar has long been famous for its fertility and beautiful fruit orchards. The unique taste and aroma of melons, watermelons, apricots, grapes, and peaches attract city dwellers and tourists to the central market.
For food lovers and fishing enthusiasts, dozens of special recreation spots have been built in Hissar where you can spend a great time while tasting delicious fish dishes.
Appetizing dishes can be tasted in 7 restaurants and teahouses, as well as in other dining places in Hissar.
Perhaps the most popular today is the "Ilhom" teahouse in the center of Hissar. Connoisseurs from all over the republic come here to taste the delicious "tandur kabob" (a meat dish cooked in a traditional oven — tandur). At the "Shomi Saadi" restaurant, dishes of both Eastern and Western cuisine are prepared. Service is available 24 hours a day.
Delicious pilaf, national dishes "Oshi burida," "Khomsurbo," and mantu are offered at the "1001 Nights" restaurant.
Near the Hissar Fortress, visitors are offered juicy kebabs, other meat dishes, soups, and salads at the "Sharshara" and "Labi daryo" teahouse-restaurants.
How to Get to Hissa
You can reach Hissar by two main routes:
Via Dushanbe:
From Dushanbe Airport, you need to travel to the 102nd microdistrict (towards the western gates of the capital). The taxi fare is around $3-$4. At this location, you will find a parking lot for taxis and minibuses heading to Hissar and other cities and districts in the western direction. The cost of a taxi seat is approximately $1 (as of 2024). The distance from Dushanbe to the center of Hissar is 22 km.
Via the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan Highway (Pahtaabad Border Checkpoint, Tursunzoda):
The distance from Tursunzoda to the center of Hissar is 33 km, and the fare is around $1.5. Upon arriving in Hissar, guests can stay at the "Usto Nabot" and "Dakhbed" hotels, which offer good accommodations at reasonable prices—ranging from 200 to 400 somoni (about $20-$40) per night per guest.
You can reach Hissar by two main routes:
Via Dushanbe:
From Dushanbe Airport, you need to travel to the 102nd microdistrict (towards the western gates of the capital). The taxi fare is around $3-$4. At this location, you will find a parking lot for taxis and minibuses heading to Hissar and other cities and districts in the western direction. The cost of a taxi seat is approximately $1 (as of 2024). The distance from Dushanbe to the center of Hissar is 22 km.
Via the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan Highway (Pahtaabad Border Checkpoint, Tursunzoda):
The distance from Tursunzoda to the center of Hissar is 33 km, and the fare is around $1.5. Upon arriving in Hissar, guests can stay at the "Usto Nabot" and "Dakhbed" hotels, which offer good accommodations at reasonable prices—ranging from 200 to 400 somoni (about $20-$40) per night per guest.
HISSAR
Part of: Cities and districts of Republican Subordination
Administrative Center: Hissar City
Date of Establishment: January 29, 1932
Population: 333,000 people
Ethnic Composition: Tajiks, Uzbeks, Kyrgyz
Religious composition: Muslims
Area: 974 km²
Former Names: Shumon, Hisori Shodmon
Time Zone: UTC+5
Climate Type: Sharp continental climate
Digital Identifiers
Phone code: +992 3139
Postal codes: 735020
Internet domain: .tj
Car registration code: 07 RT
Part of: Cities and districts of Republican Subordination
Administrative Center: Hissar City
Date of Establishment: January 29, 1932
Population: 333,000 people
Ethnic Composition: Tajiks, Uzbeks, Kyrgyz
Religious composition: Muslims
Area: 974 km²
Former Names: Shumon, Hisori Shodmon
Time Zone: UTC+5
Climate Type: Sharp continental climate
Digital Identifiers
Phone code: +992 3139
Postal codes: 735020
Internet domain: .tj
Car registration code: 07 RT
