Hissor is most known of its ancient fortress which stands on a hill guarding the valley between 2 mountain ranges to east and to west. Historical records mention fortress in Hisor as far back as 1000 BC. More recent records of the fort relate to the time when Cyrus the Great founded the first Persian Empire around 550 BC. Not much of the original fort remains though as it has been destroyed and rebuilt again several times during its history due to its strategical position. As usual, different parts of the fortress have been also added during different time periods and under different rulers. The 16th century marked the building of several components of the fort, namely the wall where the main gate is now located, the Old Madrassa, the Makhdumi A’zam Mausoleum and some additions to the Old Mosque. 

The most latest restoration may be somewhat touristic as the partial reconstruction has provided places for vendors inside the fortress in order to sell souvenirs for tourists. The latest restoration has used the 18th century Hissar fortress as a model, that was destroyed by the red army. Nevertheless, the place is worth a visit if you are in Dushanbe and have time for a day trip. The oldest surviving part of Hisor Fort is the arched gate, which is from around the year 500 AD. You can also see many not reconstructed parts of the walls if you venture a bit further into the hill towards west.