The Minaret of Jam

This imposing minaret stands in Ghor Province, Afghanistan, along the Hari River. It was built in either 1174 or 1193 (the inscription is unclear) by the Ghurid dynasty. The Ghurids were an Iranian dynasty whose empire, at its height, encompassed Iran, Afghanistan, and Iraq.

It was once part of a palace and town known as Firuzkuh, the summer capital of the Ghurids. That capital was badly damaged by a flood, then finished off by the Mongols, leaving the minaret standing almost alone.

It stands 65 meters (210) feet tall and is built of brick.

The outside is elaborately decorated, including many Koranic verses relating to Mary, the mother of Jesus.