1- Exact Geographical Location
Tapa Narenj is located in the east of Kabul, near Tapa Maranjan. This historical site lies in the foothills of Koh-e Sher Darwaza and is considered one of the most significant Buddhist archaeological sites in Afghanistan.
2- Latitude and Longitude Coordinates
Tapa Narenj is located at 34.5100° N latitude and 69.1920° E longitude.
3- Historical Background
Tapa Narenj is one of the Buddhist architectural relics in Kabul, attributed to the Kushan period (around the 2nd or 3rd century CE). In the past, this site served as a Buddhist monastery, functioning as a place of worship and meditation for Buddhist monks. Artifacts discovered at the site suggest that during the Kushan and later the Hephthalite periods, Tapa Narenj was a significant religious and educational center.
In later centuries, with the spread of Islam in the region, the site lost its importance and gradually fell into ruin. In modern times, archaeological excavations have unveiled its historical and cultural significance.
4- Architectural Features
The discovered structures at Tapa Narenj include Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and prayer halls. These buildings were constructed using clay, stone, and baked bricks and were adorned with plaster decorations and murals. Additionally, some remnants of Buddhist statues have been found, resembling the artifacts of Bamiyan and Mes Aynak.
5- Cultural Significance
Tapa Narenj is one of the most important Buddhist heritage sites in Afghanistan, representing the grandeur of the Kushan period and the influence of Buddhist culture in the region. This site once served as a religious, cultural, and educational center of great importance.
Furthermore, Tapa Narenj is regarded as one of Afghanistan’s cultural treasures, showcasing the country’s role in Central Asian history and cultural exchanges between civilizations.
6- Discoverer and Year of Discovery
Tapa Narenj was first examined by French archaeologists from the DAFA institute in 1933 CE. Subsequent excavations were conducted by Afghan and international archaeologists in the latter half of the 20th century. In recent years, further studies have been carried out to preserve and protect this historical site.
Tapa Narenj is not only an archaeological monument but also a testament to Afghanistan’s rich ancient history, ensuring its importance for future generations.