the utility of a great garrison for the period of one year and six months. Archaeological excavation In 2001, an excavation was conducted at Furg Citadel. It identified a stable, food storage areas, burrows and corridors connecting different sections of the citadel. Evidence shows that the citadel was actually built in the Afsharieh era. The classification of Furg citadel as an Ismailia structure is debatable. Ismailia citadels were constructed in remote and hidden from view. This is because the Ismailia sects were waging warfare against government authorities. Furg Citadel was probably an official citadel designed to hold government officials and troops to secure the region. The citadel is built on a mountain top like other official citadels to provide a strategic location. It was surrounded by the Forg village. Like other official citadels in Iran, the Furg consisted of three sections: Kohandej (place of living the ruler), Sharestan (Place of living of the people of village) Rabath (farms and gardens) sections See also Khorasan Iranian architecture References Buildings and structures completed in the 12th century Birjand Castles in Iran Castles of the Nizari Ismaili state Architecture in Iran Buildings and structures in South Khorasan Province National works of Iran