The ancient city of Jiaohe, founded more than 2,300 years ago, was one of the most important centers on the Silk Road. Its strategic location on a high plateau between two rivers provided natural defenses and access to water, making it an ideal place for the development of civilization in the harsh climate of the Gobi Desert. The city flourished from the 2nd century BC to the 5th century AD, when it was the capital of the Jushi kingdom and an important center of Buddhism.

Jiaohe's architecture is unique and perfectly preserved thanks to the dry desert climate. The buildings were carved into a natural plateau of compacted clay, creating a unified structure with the surrounding terrain. This construction technique, called 'yapı,' was extremely effective in protecting them from extreme weather conditions. Walking through the ruins, one can admire the impressive remains of Buddhist temples, officials' residences, residential homes and craft workshops.

The central avenue, running from north to south, is the main artery of the city and allows visitors to imagine how life was bustling here in its heyday. Along this road you can see the remains of ancient wells, which were crucial to the survival of the inhabitants in the dry climate. Particularly impressive are the ruins of a temple complex at the northern end of the city, where traces of richly decorated walls and vaults remain.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Jiaohe is how well preserved the traces of the daily life of its inhabitants are. You can see remnants of the sewage system, bread baking ovens and even fragments of frescoes decorating the walls of buildings. These details allow archaeologists and historians to reconstruct a picture of life in this ancient city and better understand its role in the history of the Silk Road.

Visiting the ruins of Jiaohe is an unforgettable adventure that allows you to travel back in time and experience the atmosphere of an ancient city on the Silk Road. Entrance to the excavation site is preceded by a visit to the state-of-the-art Visitor's Center, where you can view fascinating displays, films and multimedia presentations that introduce you to the history and significance of the site. This is an excellent introduction that helps you understand the cultural and historical context of Jiaohe.

After about a 20-minute bus ride from the visitor center, you arrive at the actual entrance to the ruins. Here the journey into history begins. It's worth hiring a local guide, who will not only help orient you, but also bring the ruins to life with fascinating stories and details that might escape the untrained eye.

The tour runs along the main avenue, allowing you to admire the diversity of Jiaohe's architecture. Here you can see the remains of private residences of officials, Buddhist temples, pagodas and cemeteries. Particularly impressive are the ruins of a temple complex at the northern end of the city, where traces of richly decorated walls and vaults remain.

One of the most fascinating aspects of a visit to Jiaohe is the opportunity to see how the inhabitants adapted to the harsh desert environment. You can see traces of the irrigation systems, wells and storage facilities that allowed them to live in this harsh climate. Some of the rock formations, carved by the wind and sand, take on fanciful shapes resembling animals or mythical creatures, adding to the site's mysterious charm.

It is worth planning at least two hours for a leisurely tour of the ruins. The site offers countless photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the light gives the ruins a magical feel. Keep in mind, however, that Jiaohe is located in the open desert, where extreme weather conditions prevail. Be prepared for intense sun and dry air - be sure to bring water, UV sunscreen, headgear and comfortable shoes.

When planning a visit to the Jiaohe ruins, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind that will help you fully enjoy this remarkable place. First of all, the best time to visit is in spring or autumn, when temperatures are more moderate. In summer, the heat can be intense, and in winter it can be too cold for comfortable sightseeing.

There is a fee to enter the archaeological complex, but ticket prices are reasonable considering the uniqueness and historical significance of the site. It's worth checking current prices on the official website or at the local tourist office, as they are subject to change.

Visitors unanimously stress that Jiaohe is very impressive in its vastness and degree of preservation. Many tourists describe the site as 'the world's largest city with buildings made of raw earth,' which gives an idea of the scale and uniqueness of this archaeological site. A walk through the ruins allows you not only to admire the architecture, but also to imagine a bustling city through which caravans of merchants from east and west passed.

One of the most fascinating aspects of a visit to Jiaohe is the opportunity to see how the inhabitants adapted to the harsh desert environment. You can see traces of the irrigation systems, wells and warehouses that allowed them to live in this harsh climate. Some of the rock formations, carved by the wind and sand, take on fanciful shapes resembling animals or mythical creatures, adding to the site's mysterious charm.

Keep in mind that visiting the ruins requires some physical exertion. The terrain is uneven, and in some places you have to climb stairs or steep paths. People with limited mobility may have difficulty accessing some parts of the complex. It is advisable to bring comfortable, non-slip shoes.

After the tour, at the exit of the complex, there is a small cafeteria where you can rest and recuperate. Especially recommended are local drinks, such as freshly blended honey dew or watermelon juice, which are perfect for quenching thirst after a long walk through the ruins.

All in all, a visit to the Jiaohe ruins is an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the fascinating history of the Silk Road. It's a place where the past comes alive and your imagination is free to wander through the centuries. For lovers of history, archaeology and extraordinary landscapes, Jiaohe is a must-see on the map of Western China travel.