# Altit Fort

- **Country:** Pakistan
- **Coordinates:** 36.315000, 74.681900
- **Location Text:** Gilgit Baltistan

Altit Fort is an ancient historic site located in the town of Altit within the Hunza Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Originally constructed in the 11th century, it stands as the oldest monument in the entire Gilgit-Baltistan region, with its distinctive Shikari Tower dating back approximately 1,100 years. The fort served as the original residence for the hereditary rulers, known as Mirs, of the former Hunza princely state before they relocated to the nearby Baltit Fort three centuries later. The structure reflects a blend of local indigenous building traditions and influences from Balti craftsmen who were brought to the area in the 16th century.

The history of the fort is deeply intertwined with the unique cultural heritage of the Burusho people, who inhabit the surrounding area and speak Burushaski, a language isolate with no known relatives. Local legends suggest the inhabitants are descendants of Greek soldiers from Alexander the Great's army or White Huns who arrived in the first century AD. The site has witnessed significant religious shifts, transitioning from Shamanism, Buddhism, and Hinduism to Islam in the 15th century, followed by a widespread conversion to Ismailism in the 19th century. The name Altit itself translates to "this side down," marking its specific geographic position in the valley.

After falling into disrepair following the departure of the royal family, the fort underwent a major restoration project in the early 2000s led by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture with support from the Government of Norway. This extensive conservation effort was completed in 2007 and subsequently earned the UNESCO Asia Pacific Heritage Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2011. Today, the restored fort serves as a vital cultural landmark and tourist attraction, preserving the architectural legacy and rich historical narratives of the Hunza Valley for future generations.

![Photo of Altit Fort](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3b/Altit_Fort_Hunza.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Altit_Fort (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)