One of the staples of the Afghan diet was a thick flatbread called "naan."   Made of wheat, it
      was nutritious, reasonably tasty, and filling.  People were accustomed to sitting on the floor,
       sometimes with cushions, but not invariably.  Thus the low table used by these naan-makers.



Naan shop, Kabul.  This structure was built by the Russians.  The Russians had their own embassy
 compound.  They tended to travel in groups, unlike many other foreigners (e.g. Americans).



   Donkey eating garbage in ditch by roadside.  Kabul side street.  While animals were generally
 not mistreated, they often had to forage for themselves.



  Cows by roadside, Kabul.  Animals often seemed to roam streets freely.  Note mud brick wall
with vertical 'bars.'   Most designs, whether in clothing, carpets, or edifices, were geometric.



Speaking of animals, the Kabul Zoo opened in 1967, with the aid of Germany (zoologists and zoo
experts).  Containing a variety of Afghan fauna, it was a popular attraction.  Later, in 1972,
it had 417 animals.  During the subsequent Soviet occupation, civil war and Taliban rule,
 the zoo fared poorly.  Some animals were maimed and killed.



Owl collection at the zoo.  Other birds included parrots, pheasants, and white cranes.



Zoo antelope.  Other species subsequently added:  deer, bear, lion, tigers, wolves, foxes,
martens, otters, hyenas, and an elephant.



   Children's playground, Kabul.  Boys and men often wore pajamas in the open, as casual dress. 
 This was particularly true on Jomah, Friday, the Muslim day of rest and worship.  There was a
 certain logic to this practice, as pajamas were comfortable and lightweight, ideal for summer use.



   Children outside compound walls of domiciles.  Karte-Char (a district of), Kabul.  Note child in
    middle is barefoot, despite it being cold enough for snow to remain on nearby hills.




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