Murad Khani: From a Forgotten Neighborhood to a Global Hub of Culture and Art
Kabul-The historic district of Murad Khani, nestled in the heart of Kabul, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Once buried under layers of neglect and debris, this centuries-old neighborhood is being revitalized through collaborative efforts by the Ministry of Information and Culture, Kabul Municipality, and the Turquoise Mountain Foundation.
Weezharoz-Their joint mission aims to restore Murad Khani’s rich cultural heritage and establish it as a premier destination for cultural tourism in Afghanistan.
A Vision for Cultural Revival Mawlawi Atiqullah Azizi, Deputy Minister of Art and Culture, accompanied by Sadruddin Tajik, Deputy Director of Urban Planning and Development at Kabul Municipality, and officials from the Turquoise Mountain Foundation, recently visited Murad Khani to assess ongoing restoration projects and discuss future development plans.
The visit focused on evaluating the restoration work and exploring strategies to preserve the area’s historical identity while promoting it as a vibrant cultural center.
“Murad Khani is one of Kabul’s significant historical assets, and its identity must be preserved,” stated Deputy Minister Azizi.
“Our goal is to transform it from a neglected and forgotten area into an active historical and cultural district, attracting not only Afghans but also international tourists to witness our culture, art, and history.”
Restoration Efforts and Achievements The Turquoise Mountain Foundation, established in 2006, has been instrumental in the restoration of Murad Khani.
Their efforts have led to the rehabilitation of over 150 historic buildings, including homes, bazaars, and caravanserais.
One notable achievement is the restoration of the Great Serai, which received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award of Distinction in 2013 for cultural heritage conservation.
The foundation has also established the Turquoise Mountain Institute for Afghan Arts and Architecture, providing training in traditional crafts such as woodwork, calligraphy, ceramics, jewelry, and miniature painting.
This initiative not only preserves Afghanistan’s artistic heritage but also offers economic opportunities for local artisans.
Community Engagement and Future Plans During the visit, representatives from the Turquoise Mountain Foundation shared their vision for further development, including the creation of a cultural market, restoration of historic buildings and alleys, and the designation of Murad Khani as a cultural zone for tourists.
These plans aim to enhance the area’s appeal and accessibility while maintaining its historical integrity.
Sadruddin Tajik expressed Kabul Municipality’s support for the project, emphasizing their commitment to improving the area’s infrastructure and cleanliness to facilitate tourism and community engagement.
A Symbol of Cultural and Economic Revivals The ongoing restoration of Murad Khani serves as a testament to Afghanistan’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage and promoting economic development through tourism.
As efforts continue, Murad Khani is poised to become a symbol of resilience and a beacon for cultural appreciation, attracting visitors from around the world to experience the rich tapestry of Afghan history and artistry.
Weezharoz
