Minaret of Jam

DATE OF INCRIPTION :- 2002

 LOCATION :-

Shahrak District, Ghur Province,afghanistan

DESCRIPTION :-

The Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam represent
the artistic creativity and
mastery of structural engineering of the Ghurid civilization (1000–1220).
Jam is probably located at the site of the Ghurid dynasty's summer capital,
Firuzkuh.
The 12th and 13th century Ghurids controlled not only Afghanistan,
but also parts of eastern Iran,
Northern India and parts of Pakistan.
The 65 metre high minaret,surrounded by mountains that reach up to 2400 meters,
is built entirely of baked bricks.
It is famous for its intricate brick,stucco and glazed tile decoration,
which consists of alternating bands of kufic and naskhi calligraphy,
geometric patterns,and verses from the Qur'an.

The Minaret was forgotten by the outside world until rediscovered in 1886 by Sir Thomas Holdich.


Covered in elaborate brickwork with a blue tile inscription at the top,
it is noteworthy for the quality of its architecture and decoration,
which represent the culmination of an architectural and artistic tradition in this region.
Its impact is heightened by its dramatic setting,
a deep river valley between towering mountains in the heart of the Ghur province.



Justification for Inscription :-

Criterion (ii): The innovative architecture and
decoration of the Minaret of Jam played a significant role in the development of the arts
and architecture of the Indian sub-continent and beyond.

Criterion (iii): The Minaret of Jam and its associated archaeological remains constitute exceptional testimony to the power
and quality of the Ghurid civilization that dominated its region in the 12th and 13th centuries.

Criterion (iv): The Minaret of Jam is an outstanding example of
Islamic architecture and ornamentation in this region
and played a significant role in their further dissemination