10 Things to Do at Köneürgench Historical Monument in Gazojak, Turkmenistan
Köneürgench Historical Monument in Gazojak, Turkmenistan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to some of the most impressive ruins in the region. The ancient city of Köneürgench was an important trading post on the Silk Road and was once the capital of the Khorezm Empire. Today, the ruins of the city still stand in the desert, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. From exploring the ancient ruins to learning about local culture, here are 10 things to do at Köneürgench Historical Monument.
1. Explore the Ancient Ruins: Köneürgench Historical Monument is home to some of the most impressive ruins in Central Asia. The ruins of the ancient city are spread over an area of about 20 hectares and include the remains of the city walls, fortresses, mosques, and palaces. Visitors can explore the ruins and get a feel for the city’s former grandeur.
2. Visit the Mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh: The Mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh is a stunning structure that dates back to the 12th century. The mausoleum is a square building with a dome and is decorated with intricate carvings and inscriptions. Inside the mausoleum, visitors can find the tomb of Sultan Tekesh, the ruler of the Khorezm Empire.
3. Learn about Local Culture: In addition to exploring the ruins, visitors can also learn about the local culture and history of the region. There are several museums and cultural centers in the area that offer insight into the history of the Khorezm Empire and the Silk Road.
4. Take a Camel Ride: A great way to explore the ruins is to take a camel ride. Visitors can take a guided tour of the ruins on a camel and get a unique perspective of the ancient city.
5. Visit the Bazaar: The bazaar in Köneürgench is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts. The bazaar is a bustling market where visitors can find everything from traditional carpets to jewelry and clothing.
6. Visit the Local Mosque: The local mosque in Köneürgench is a beautiful building that dates back to the 12th century. The mosque is decorated with intricate carvings and inscriptions and is a great place to learn about the Islamic faith.
7. Visit the Citadel: The citadel in Köneürgench is an impressive structure that dates back to the 12th century. The citadel is surrounded by a wall and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding desert.
8. Take a Boat Ride on the Amu Darya River: The Amu Darya River runs through the region and is a great place to take a boat ride. Visitors can take a guided boat tour and get a unique perspective of the region.
9. Visit the Local Hot Springs: The local hot springs in Köneürgench are a great place to relax and unwind. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
10. Enjoy a Traditional Meal: The local cuisine in Köneürgench is a great way to experience the culture of the region. Visitors can enjoy a traditional meal of plov, a rice dish cooked with vegetables and meat, and shashlik, skewers of grilled meat.
Köneürgench Historical Monument is a great destination for those looking to explore the ruins of the ancient city and learn about the local culture. From exploring the ruins to taking a boat ride on the Amu Darya River, there are plenty of things to do at Köneürgench Historical Monument.