Shrine of Ali, Mazar-i-Sharif (Blue Mosque)

Gorgeous mosque with turquoise-colored domes, one of the most venerated shrines in Afghanistan. The first mosque was destroyed by Genghis Khan around 1220 and the current building was built in the 15th century. Constructed above the purported grave of Ali ibn Abi Talib. Nevertheless, some consider that here is buried Zoroaster.

Kalta Minor, Khiva

Massive, unfinished minaret at Mohammed Amin Khan Madrassah (1852 – 1855). Symbol of Khiva. The tower is glazed with tiles forming intricate patterns. The minaret is 29 m tall, although initially it was planned to be 70 m tall. Construction works were interrupted in 1855 and have not been restarted since then.

Palmyra

Important ancient city – caravan stop. Existing since at least the 2nd millenia BC, abandoned after the 16th century AD. Now impressive ruins remain – temple of Ba’al (the 1st – 2nd century AD), decumanus with arch, theater and others. City had its own alphabet.

A-Ma Temple

Taoist temple, built in 1488. It is possible that this temple gave its name to Macao.

Belfry of Cagsawa Church

Ruins of belfry – the only remnant of Cagsawa village after it was covered with hot ashes in 1814. Some 200 people died in the church.

Patan Durbar Square

The gorgeous central part of a historical city, the former capital city of Malla. The floor of the square is tiled with red bricks and the square is surrounded by ornate buildings. Most of the current buildings are from the 17th century, but the history of this ancient town is much longer. Here are found 55 larger temples and 136 interesting courtyards. Heavily damaged during the earthquake on April 25, 2015.

Angkor Wat

Considered to be the single largest religious complex in the world, built in the ancient capital of Khmers in the early 12th century. Considered to be one of the greatest achievements of humankind in architecture. Initially built as a Hindu monument, later converted into a Buddhist temple complex. Temple is adorned with more than 1 thousand m2 of high-quality bas-reliefs.

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque

One of the largest mosques, built in 1958, this Islamic site is renowned due to its impressive and elegant design.

Somawathie Stupa

Historical pagoda of major importance in the past, built in the 2nd century BC. Monastery has served as abode for several Arahants – supremely enlightened beings. This site is famous thanks to unexplained light phenomena – beams of light emanating from the stupa, beating of invisible drums and many other unusual events.

Antiphonitis church

Interesting medieval church with a dome resting on eight pillars. Interior of the church is adorned with frescoes, the oldest were made in the 12th century.