Minaret of Jam
An Introductory Description of Minaret of Jam
1- Exact Geographic Location:
The Minaret of Jam is located in Ghor province of Afghanistan, in the Shahrak district. It stands in a beautiful and remote valley at the confluence of the Jam and Hari Rud rivers. Its position amidst towering mountains and pristine nature adds a unique grandeur to this historical landmark.
2- Geographical Coordinates:
Latitude: 34.3958° N
Longitude: 64.5211° E
3- Historical Background:
The Minaret of Jam was built in the 6th century CE during the reign of the Ghurids by the order of Sultan Ghiyasuddin Ghuri. It was constructed as a memorial to the victories and achievements of the Ghurid dynasty in the region. Surrounding the minaret are the remnants of a historic city, indicating the civilization and magnificence of that era.
4- Architectural Features:
The Minaret of Jam, approximately 65 meters tall, is the second-tallest brick minaret in the world. It features a cylindrical design and is divided into several levels with decorative balconies. Its artistic elements include intricate tilework, Quranic inscriptions in Kufic script, and geometric patterns. The structure is crafted from baked bricks and gypsum, engineered with remarkable skill, allowing it to stand firm over centuries.
5- Cultural Significance:
The Minaret of Jam symbolizes the pinnacle of Islamic civilization in Afghanistan and holds immense cultural value. It is not only a reminder of the Ghurid dynasty's power and greatness but also reflects the high level of art, architecture, and engineering of the time. In 2002 CE, the minaret was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
6- Discoverer and Year of Discovery:
The Minaret of Jam was first identified in 1886 CE by British scholar Sir Thomas Holdich. However, significant research on this historical monument began in the early 20th century CE, with archaeologists like Alfred Foucher conducting detailed studies. These efforts brought global attention to the importance of the Minaret of Jam, turning it into one of Afghanistan’s cultural icons.