Jabal Al-Siraj Citadel is one of the ancient historical monuments of Afghanistan, which is a symbol of the cultural richness and historical past of this border and region. Jabal Saraj Royal Citadel is located in the center of the Jabal Saraj district of Parwan province.
The order to build this citadel was issued in 1905 by Habibullah Khan. However, it took two years to build and was finally completed in 1907. The royal citadel covers 36 acres of land. The architectural style of the royal citadel belongs to the Ghorian and Timurid eras. This palace was known as "Siraj Al-Emsar" at that time. Habibullah Khan used this citadel as his guest house and entertainment center and was considered the royal residence until the reign of Amanullah Khan.
After that, it was used as a military base in different periods. The high walls that gave the citadel a defensive shape are proof of this. This historic citadel was built on the edge of a high ground that dominates the valley of the Jabal al-Siraj Sea. The fortress of Jabal al-Siraj also has towers and bars and is surrounded by small and large porticos.
Citadel of Jabal al-Siraj and the unkindness of time
The royal defense suffered heavy casualties during the last four decades but suffered the most during the Taliban regime. With the Taliban attack on Parwan province, about 90% of the citadel, including the citadel harem, was destroyed.
The remaining parts of this palace include the south gate of the citadel, its large and public gate, part of the reception rooms, the perimeter wall, about five gates, and a two-story building.