Ancient wall in the city of Derbent is under threat

Part of the ancient wall in the city of Derbent in Dagestan on the Caspian is now under threat of destruction as city residents need pedestrian passages. Some citizens however, believe the wall should remain untouched.

Part of the ancient wall separates the Derbent fortress from the market. The city authorities approved making a passage in the wall to make access to the market easier.

Unfortunately, there are many examples of such mistreatment of Drebent's historical heritage. Part of the wall in the city suburbs was destroyed by the inhabitants. They used the stonework as building material for their homes.

Derbent is the second largest city in Dagestan and one of the most ancient settlements in the world. It is 5,000 years old, and home to a mix of Arab, Persian and Turkish descendents, along with local ethnic groups. However, the city is most famous for its fortifications.

In 2003, UNESCO added the Derbent fortress to its list of World Heritage sites.