BALA HISSAR

The old citadel is located about metres above the plain. It was built to defend Kabul. Bala Hissar means "the top of the top". The ramparts of Kabul depart from the fortress and follow the crest of the mountain along the river. The construction of these ramparts dates back to the Huns Hephtalites in the th century. The following dynasties continued construction, expanding and restaurant, until the th century.

A strategic point to have a view on Kabul and the surrounding mountains, the citadel has long played an important role in local history.

Babur, founder of the Mughal Empire, lived here in the early th century. He has made numerous beautification works. Later, successive leaders also settled there. In September 1879, the English seized Bala Hissar and housed their army. It was from that time that the citadel will suffer various damage followed by repairs. English troops leave Afghanistan in April 1881. The citadel is then occupied by the Afghans and rebuilt by the Amir Abdur Rahman. At that time, it served as a garrison. During the civil war, beginning in 1992, she was the scene of violent fighting. In 1996, it was occupied by the Taliban and, since 2001, by the Afghan government forces.

The old walls, which can still be seen, are 7 m high and 3 to 4 m wide. They date back to the préislamique period and will be repaired until the th century. They follow the ridge line of the hill and depart from Bala Hissar. A total of 5 km of ramparts that go up to the so-called television hill.

The valley is beautiful. To appreciate the view, you must walk the ramparts. Leave from Bala Hissar and, following the small path that climbs, climb to villages in height. From there you can see the remains of the ramparts. By continuing to climb, we reach another slope of the mountain. From the summit you can see the gardens of Babur. You can then go down to the gardens. When you arrive near groups of houses on the edge of the mountain, beware of dogs. Several people complained of attacks and bites in this area. Even double attention: today, the ground is still mined.