Bala Hissar, Kabul

The Bala Hissar is the famous citadel of Kabul, built during 5th century B.C. The fortress was served as the prime defensive shelter for the ruler of Afghanistan. In 1879, this ancient fortress was ruined by General Roberts. Cavagnari, a British resident was killed by the Afganis and it was in retaliation that General Roberts destroyed the citadel. This very incident was the sole reason behind the Second Anglo-Afgan War.

The Bala Hissar fortress was revived by Abdur Rahman and is now presently occupied by the National Army of Afghanistan. Situated at the Kuh-e-Sherdarwaza Mountain the fortress has witnessed many important incidents of the country's ancient history. Surrounded by twelve feet thick and twenty feet high city walls, "Bala Hissar" was mainly divided into two major parts. The lower bastion housed royal palaces, barracks and stables and the upper portion of the citadel featured the Black pit and the armoury.

The Bala Hissar fortress saw its end with the arrival of the British army. The British forces used the citadel as their barracks. Due to an explosion the upper part of the fortress was damaged and the rest of the portion was destroyed by General Roberts.

Presently, the Bala Hissar enjoys a good climate overlooking lakes and meadows. It is also home to the 55th division of the city, Kabul.