Turquoise Mountain is regenerating Murad Khane, in the heart of Kabul's old city, as a cultural, educational and commercial hub for the city. It will serve as a revitalised home for its residents and for the Institute for Afghan Arts and Architecture.
Murad Khane is a historic commercial and residential quarter in the heart of Kabul's old city, renowned for its rich cultural heritage of traditional Afghan architecture and crafts. In 2006, after decades of conflict and neglect, Murad Khane was buried under two metres of accumulated rubbish, and residential and historic buildings were collapsing weekly. The rich cultural heritage of Murad Khane provides the basis for its regeneration and for the community's long-term social and economic wellbeing.
Turquoise Mountain's regeneration efforts comprise three areas:
Already, the area's infrastructure has been dramatically improved, many family homes have been saved from collapse, a public primary school and health clinic have been established, parts of the quarter's bazaar have been renovated, and the restoration of some of its prominent historic buildings, which will be the new site of the Institute for Afghan Arts & Architecture, have been completed. With over 100 rooms and associated traditional teahouses, restaurants and craft businesses, this new educational and cultural complex in the heart of Kabul will serve as a focal point for Afghans to gather and enjoy the best of their traditional culture.
