The Syr Darya: Lost Cities Along Central Asia’s Secret River

Nick Fielding traces the Syr Darya’s historic role in travel and trade across Central Asia and revisits cities along its route.

For centuries, the Syr Darya connected the Pamir Mountains with the northern coast of the Aral Sea, supporting travel and trade across Central Asia. Drawing on his journeys along the river, Nick Fielding explores the decline of cities including Otrar, Sauran, Sygynak and Chirik Rabat.