The No Gombad Mosque, built in 9th century, is the oldest mosque in Afghanistan and apparently is the first mosque built all over Central Asia. The mosque is also known as Hajji Piyada Mosque (“Hajji On-Foot Mosque”), as it is also a grave of a respected ancient pious man who went to Mecca for pilgrimage on foot. The mosque is still in use, and a mayor pilgrimage destination in Balkh.

Balkh, Afghanistan, 2008