Afghanistan has long been a crossroads of cultures from both the east and the west.
1st century C.E.–present
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Silver dinar of the Alchon Huns
This coin and 13 other Hun examples, over 200 Sasanian silver coins and 5 gold Byzantine imitations, were all found in the relic deposit of the Tope Kelan stupa.
Dado Panel, Courtyard of the Royal Palace of Mas’ud III
Once painted and gilded, this panel was part of a larger frieze bearing commemorative Kufic inscriptions.
Crossroads of the ancient world
Stunning objects like this ancient gold pendant tell a history of Afghanistan too often eclipsed by war.
Bamiyan Buddhas
These colossal figures presided over the Bamiyan Valley for over 1000 years; the Taliban demolished them in 2001.
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