UNESCO stresses urgent protection of the Minaret of Jam in Ghor Province
The Head of UNESCO’s Office in Afghanistan emphasized the need for further protection of the Jam Minaret during her visit to Ghor province.
Patricia McPhillips, the head of UNESCO’s office in Afghanistan, highlighted the importance of safeguarding the Jam Minaret during her visit to Ghor province. She stated that efforts to secure funding and implement protective measures for the site continue. McPhillips also mentioned plans to construct a new bridge over the Hari Rud River to improve access for both locals and tourists near the Jam Minaret.
The Jam Minaret was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site approximately 22 years ago. However, the site has faced significant damage due to earthquakes and recent floods, raising concerns among cultural activists.
Cultural activists are urging global cultural institutions, particularly UNESCO, to focus on restoring and preserving the ancient Jam Minaret in Ghor to prevent further deterioration of this historical landmark.
Ghor province is home to several historical and tourist sites, with the Jam Minaret being the most significant cultural monument. The Jam Minaret, built in 1194 during the reign of Sultan Ghiyasuddin Ghori, stands in the Jam Valley in the Shahrak district of Ghor province.
At over 830 years old, the Jam Minaret is the second tallest brick minaret in the world, after the Qutb Minar in Delhi, India. It is located 70 kilometers west of Firozkoh, the capital of Ghor province. The preservation of this ancient site is not only crucial for Afghanistan’s cultural heritage but also for its role in global history.
Efforts to protect and preserve the Jam Minaret are critical, as it is a symbol of Afghanistan’s rich architectural and cultural history. UNESCO’s continued support and attention to this project will ensure that this iconic structure can withstand the test of time and remain an important part of Afghanistan’s heritage for future generations.
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