Merv is an ancient city located in present-day Turkmenistan, known for its rich history and cultural significance. The city was once a major center of the Silk Road trade route and was an important hub of commerce and culture for centuries. Merv is also known for its well-preserved architecture, including ancient fortresses, palaces, and mausoleums that reflect the artistic and architectural traditions of the region.

The city of Merv has a long and complex history, with evidence of human occupation dating back to the 3rd millennium BCE. It was one of the most important cities of the ancient Persian empire, and was later conquered by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BCE. Over the centuries, Merv was ruled by various empires and dynasties, including the Seljuk Turks, the Mongols, and the Timurids.

Today, visitors to Merv can explore the ruins of the city's many historic buildings and monuments, including the Greater Kyz Kala and the Little Kyz Kala, which are two of the best-preserved ancient fortresses in the region. The city is also home to several mausoleums and mosques, including the Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar and the Mosque of Ibn Zeid. These structures showcase the intricate carvings, tile work, and other decorative elements that were typical of the region's architecture during the Islamic Golden Age.

Merv is also known for its impressive system of underground water channels, called qanats, which were used for irrigation and drinking water. The qanats are still in use today, and are an important part of the region's agricultural infrastructure.