Hulbuk Palace (Khulbuk)

Hulbuk (Khulbuk) is an ancient citadel in Tajikistan, located near the village of Kurban-Said (Qurbonshahid) in the middle of the village of Pingan, in the Khatlon region, about 26 km southwest of the city of Kulob. The results of excavations at Hulbuk indicate that it was the capital of Khuttal province from the 9th to 11th centuries. The complex includes the Sovereign's Palace, the Citadel and richly decorated ancient dwellings, including figures and animals. The depiction of a girl playing the harp is unique, and other treasures have been found such as an ivory chess set, glass and bronze utensils. The citadel had its own heating system, rainwater pipe, an enclosure more than 12 meters high and it was not only an administrative and commercial center, but also a cultural center.