The Afghan-Tajik border divides Badakhshan, a unique cultural crossroads high in the mountains. Local Tajiks are the descendants of ancient East Iranian tribes. A medieval trade route linking Europe with China once crossed this land. Now, Pamir villagers are cut off from the rest of Tajikistan, and the world, by snowfall, landslides and the lack of roads for eight months of the year. Rescue from these regular blockades is provided by the four snowless months when men guard flocks in outlying pastures while women prepare for the next cold season.