Dandanakan represents the ruins of the medieval town 35 km to the south-west of Mary situated on the medieval route from Serakhs to Merv. The site consists of the central fortified part surrounded by a vast settlement. The fortress has a square plan and in the middle of south-eastern façade there is a gate. Fortress walls are reinforced with towers in the corners and at the gate. Two principal streets divided the town in four parts. A cathedral mosque (IX-early X cc.) was located almost in its centre. A large caravanserai is located 50 m northwards, beyond the bounds of shakhristan. Another caravanserai is 70 m to the east from the eastern corner. Within the territory of rabadthere are pottery districts and dwelling constructions. Dandanakan was founded in the VIII-IX cc. In 1221 it was destroyed by Mongols, but later was partially restored and its caravanserai functioned till the 16^th-17^th centuries.