The soil of Kabul's historic Bala Hissar fortress is giving up secrets centuries old. Archaeologists excavating the site in Afghanistan's capital have uncovered the remains of a Mughal-era palace, evidence of ancient Buddhist monasteries and a mysterious star-shaped pool, shedding new light on more than 2,000 years of the city's history.
According to sources, the palace ruins include wall paintings, bathing facilities and a structure believed to be a royal throne. Researchers have also found Buddhist sculptures and monastery buildings, showing that Kabul was an important religious and cultural centre before the Islamic period. Ancient coins, Islamic ceramics, oil lamps and pottery have also been recovered, offering a window into daily life across different eras.
Excavations are under way in five areas, with one trench now about 11 metres deep. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture has led conservation and archaeological work at the site since 2018, using technology such as ground-penetrating radar and 3D laser scanning.
Bala Hissar served for centuries as a royal residence, administrative seat and military stronghold, notably after the Mughal emperor Babur captured Kabul in 1504. The fortress was badly damaged in successive conflicts, especially the Second Anglo-Afghan War in 1879. Large parts remain unexplored, and archaeologists believe future digs could reveal much more of Afghanistan's rich cultural, religious and military heritage.