Fact 1: Afghanistan's Great Wall
Did you know that Afghanistan actually has its own "Great Wall"? Constructed in the 5th century, the wall, known as the Ghaznavid Wall, spans a vast 70 miles. It's significantly smaller than China's Great Wall, but its presence serves as a testament to Afghanistan's historical significance and ancient cultural richness.
Fact 2: A Country Of Languages
Despite Dari and Pashto being the official languages of Afghanistan, the country is home to a multitude of other tongues. A surprising 30 other languages are recognized in the country, with many dialects and linguistic variations tied to different tribes and regions. This multilingualism showcases the rich diversity of Afghanistan's population.
Fact 3: The Home Of The First Oil Paintings
While most tend to attribute the origin of oil paintings to the Renaissance period in Europe, the earliest known oil paintings were actually discovered in caves of Afghanistan's Bamiyan valleys, dating back to the 7th century. The paintings, portraying Buddhas and other religious figures, are a testament to the high artistic skill of ancient Afghans.
Fact 4: The Legendary Afghan Hounds
Afghanistan is also the birthplace of the elegant and majestic canine breed, Afghan Hounds. These dogs are known for their thin, fine and silky coats, along with their unique eastern appeal. They were originally used for hunting since their unmatched speed and agility made them perfect for chasing game.
Fact 5: Kandahar's Invisible City
In Afghanistan's city of Kandahar, an ancient invisible city was discovered using aerial cameras. Dated back to 500 BCE, this city that now lies beneath the surface validates the region's rich history and offers archaeologists unique insights into life in ancient times.
Fact 6: Poetry Runs In Afghan Blood
Afghanistan has a deep cultural relationship with poetry. The multilingual society cherishes poetry, with events such as Mushairas (poetry slams) being quite popular. The country has nurtured prominent poets like Rumi, known globally for his mystical and philosophical poetry.
Fact 7: Landlocked Country
Afghanistan is one of the forty-five landlocked countries in the world, surrounded by six different countries, including Pakistan, Iran, and China. This has a significant effect on its climate, economy, and socio-political relationships as it lacks direct access to oceans.
Fact 8: Bonanza for Geologists
Afghanistan houses a wealth of minerals and metals worth trillions of dollars. The rich resource base which includes lithium, gold, cobalt, copper, and iron ore is a goldmine for geologists and offers great potential for the country's economy if managed properly.
Fact 9: First Female Judge
Despite difficulties faced by Afghan women, strides towards equality have been achieved. Anisa Rasooli became the first female Supreme Court Judge of Afghanistan in 2018, signifying a remarkable change in the nation's societal structure.
Fact 10: One Of The Youngest Populations Worldwide
Over 50% of the Afghan population is under the age of 15, making it one of the countries with the youngest demographics in the world. Afghanistan's youth is its most precious resource, holding the potential to shape a brighter future.
Fact 11: Red Gold - Saffron
Saffron, one of the world's most expensive spices, is cultivated in Afghanistan. The country's climate is ideal for growing this 'red gold', and it has become a lucrative industry, even earning the title of the best quality saffron globally from the International Taste and Quality Institute.
Fact 12: Significant Buddhas
Before their destruction by the Taliban in 2001, the Buddhas of Bamiyan were the tallest standing Buddhas in the world. Carved in the 6th century, they stood 53 and 35 meters tall respectively, illustrating the particularly impressive architectural prowess of that era.
Fact 13: Peace Monument in Bamyan
On the site where the ancient Buddhas of Bamiyan once stood, the Afghan government unveiled a Peace Monument in 2015, using laser technology to project a 3D image of the Buddhas onto the same cliff-side. This symbolizes the resilience of the Afghan spirit and their effort to restore and preserve their cultural heritage.
Fact 14: Pomegranate Heaven
Afghanistan is famed for its pomegranates. The country's natural terrain and climate create perfect conditions for cultivating this delicious fruit. In fact, Kandahar city is famous for having the sweetest pomegranates in the world.
Fact 15: World's First Minaret
The Minaret of Jam is believed to be the world's second tallest brick minaret, only surpassed by the Qutb Minar in India. It's also thought to be one of the first minarets ever built, with origins dating back to the 12th century. Uncover its mystery and you could learn a great deal about the ancient Ghorid Empire.
Fact 16: TAPI Pipeline Project
Afghanistan is set to become a vital part in linking central Asia's energy suppliers to South Asia's consumers with the ambitious TAPI (Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India) gas pipeline project. This pipeline will make Afghanistan a significant stakeholder in regional energy security.
Fact 17: Snow Leopards in Afghanistan
While Afghanistan's wildlife has suffered greatly due to wars, one of the few positive notes is the presence of the elusive snow leopard population. Snow leopards are endangered species, and discovering a stable population here provides a glimmer of hope for their conservation.
Fact 18: Expansion of Education
Since 2001, the number of enrolled students in Afghanistan has gone from 1 million to nearly nine million, according to UNESCO data. While the country still has a long way to go, this increase represents significant progress towards improving education levels and literacy rates.
Fact 19: Afghanistan's Oldest Mosque
The Haji Piyada Mosque, believed to have been built in the 9th century, is reportedly the oldest Islamic building in Afghanistan. A window into the architectural style of the time, it remains a site of great historical and religious importance.
Fact 20: Crazy For Cricket
Despite not being traditionally known for cricket, Afghanistan's national team has made impressive strides over the last decade. The country received Test status in 2017, a significant achievement in international cricket, and has been growing its cricketing prowess ever since.