Ancient Civilizations of Afghanistan: From the Earliest Times to the Mongol Conquest

Featuring numerous original color photographs, an extraordinary visual history of early Afghanistan.

Afghanistan, at the meeting place of the Indian subcontinent, Middle East, and Central Asia, holds a key place in the spread of ancient civilizations. Its remarkable cultural heritage includes the Bronze Age Helmand civilization, the Greek kingdom of Bactria, the Kushan Empire, and the Ghaznavid Empire--yet much of its history remains unknown. This beautifully illustrated book unveils Afghanistan’s ancient cities, temples, stupas, monasteries, and other monuments set against breathtaking landscapes, presenting them to a wider audience. Incorporating the latest research and discoveries, it is a captivating journey through Afghanistan’s rich antiquities, brought to life with the author’s vivid, full-color photographs.

Warwick Ball is an archaeologist and author who spent over twenty years carrying out excavations, architectural studies, and monumental restoration throughout the Middle East. He is the author of many books on the history and archaeology of the region including The Archaeological Gazetteer of Afghanistan.