The Alley of Ashuqan O Arefan is one of the historic alleyways of Kabul, which dates back to the early rise of Islam.

The Ashuqan O Arefan Shrine is situated on the slopes of Sher Darwaza Mountain, near Kabul Shur Bazaar, one of the oldest places in Kabul. According to its inhabitants, “Ashuqan O Arefan” refers to the sons of the famous Persian poet, Khwaja Abdullah Ansari, who lived in this area.

“It is almost 1400 years old, and it is from the time of the caliphate of Usman (RA) and Jaber Ansar who was martyred here. Shah Doshamshira Wali, brought the religion of Islam here and was martyred here,” said Sami, a Kabul resident.

Houses made of mud can be seen in this area, which are similar to the architecture of old Kabul. It still stands after many years.

In the Alley of Ashuqan O Arefan, houses have been built in an ancient style, including wood used in various patterns on doors and windows.

“In the Alley of Ashuqan O Arefan, the people of Kabul used to live here in the past. Now, none of those people are left here except some of the families,” said Ali Mohammad, a resident of Kabul.

Although some of the walls of this alley were damaged during battles in past decades, the beauty and art in its woods can still be seen.

“The old house you see is 300 years old and has been inherited from our grandfather,” said Mansour, a resident of the Alley of Ashuqan O Arefan.

In addition to houses made of earth and wood, the Ashuqan O Arefan Shrine is also one of the ancient and hidden treasures of the alley, which is still standing despite the changes.