Trivia in Afghanistan

National symbols

Flag: A simple design featuring the Islamic declaration of faith (Shahada) in black text prominently displayed at the center on a white background. Established by the Taliban in 1997 and reinstated as the official national flag in 2021.

Emblem: A simple emblem featuring the Shahada (Islamic declaration of faith) in black text combined with a sword at its center.

Trivia & facts

• Buzkashi, considered Afghanistan's national sport, is a horseback game involving competing for a goat carcass.
• Pashtun society places great importance on "Pashtunwali," a tribal customary code.
• Kabul sits at approximately 1800m elevation, making it one of the world's highest capitals.
• Some of the world's oldest oil paintings are found in the Bamiyan cave murals (7th century).
• The Afghan Hound is native to the country and was historically used by royalty for hunting.
• The famous "Kabul kites" soar beautifully in the clear winter sky.
• Lapis lazuli from the Kokcha Valley was used in ancient Egyptian Tutankhamun's golden mask.
• Afghanistan is considered one of the origins of polo.
• Rice dishes like Biryani use generous amounts of cardamom and cumin, creating highly aromatic flavors.
• Pomegranates from southern Kandahar are a top Middle Eastern market brand for sweetness and color.