The ancient Uzundara fortress in Surkhandarya region’s Baysun district is a unique historical monument combining Greek and local architectural traditions.

The fortress, built on the top of a waterless mountain, was a strategically important defensive facility on the border of Bactria and Sogd.

Uzundara was an administrative and military center. The walls of the fortress are decorated with characteristic high-reliefs and heraldic images, border troops were stationed here. As a result of archaeological excavations in the fortress, a silver drachma with the image of a lion mask covering the head of Alexander the Great was discovered. Various coins dating back to the period of Antiochus I have also been found, which provide information about the financial and political life of the area.

Stone slabs covered with alabaster mortar, fragments of baths, and baptismal fonts were found outside the fortress. These finds provide extensive information about the life and culture of the fortress garrison. Archaeological research is currently continuing with the cooperation of the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan and the Russian Academy of Sciences.

The Center for Islamic Civilization has developed a project to restore this archaeological site. The project provides for the reconstruction of Uzundara and its transformation into a tourist destination.

A.Rustamov, UzA