10 Things to Do in Shah-i-Zinda, Guliston, Uzbekistan
Shah-i-Zinda, located in Guliston, Uzbekistan, is a spectacular ancient site with a rich history and plenty of attractions for visitors. The site is home to a vast array of architectural monuments, including mausoleums, mosques, and madrasas, all of which are intricately decorated with exquisite tilework.
Shah-i-Zinda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Central Asia. It is believed to be the burial place of the Prophet Muhammad’s cousin, Qusam ibn Abbas. As such, it is a popular destination for religious pilgrims from all over the world.
If you’re planning a trip to Shah-i-Zinda, here are 10 things you should do while you’re there.
1. Explore the Mausoleums
The mausoleums at Shah-i-Zinda are some of the most impressive monuments in the region. They are intricately decorated with beautiful tilework and mosaics and are a sight to behold. The site includes several mausoleums, including the tomb of Qusam ibn Abbas, which is the most important monument at the site.
2. Visit the Mosque of Khoja Ahrar
The Mosque of Khoja Ahrar is a stunning mosque located at the entrance to the site. It is believed to have been built in the 15th century and is decorated with intricate tilework and colorful mosaics. The mosque is a popular attraction for visitors to the site and is a great place to take a break and admire the beauty of the architecture.
3. Visit the Mosque of Shirin Bibi
The Mosque of Shirin Bibi is another stunning mosque located at the site. It is believed to have been built in the 17th century and is decorated with intricate tilework and colorful mosaics. The mosque is a popular attraction for visitors to the site and is a great place to take a break and admire the beauty of the architecture.
4. Explore the Madrasas
The site is home to several madrasas, or Islamic schools, which were built in the 17th and 18th centuries. The madrasas are impressive and are decorated with intricate tilework and colorful mosaics. They are a popular attraction for visitors to the site and are a great place to take a break and admire the beauty of the architecture.
5. Visit the Tomb of Khoja Ahmed Yasavi
The Tomb of Khoja Ahmed Yasavi is a stunning mausoleum located at the site. It is believed to have been built in the 12th century and is decorated with intricate tilework and colorful mosaics. The tomb is a popular attraction for visitors to the site and is a great place to take a break and admire the beauty of the architecture.
6. Visit the Tomb of Bibi Khanum
The Tomb of Bibi Khanum is another impressive mausoleum located at the site. It is believed to have been built in the 14th century and is decorated with intricate tilework and colorful mosaics. The tomb is a popular attraction for visitors to the site and is a great place to take a break and admire the beauty of the architecture.
7. Explore the Bazaar
The bazaar at Shah-i-Zinda is a great place to explore and find some unique souvenirs. The bazaar is filled with vendors selling traditional Uzbek handicrafts, carpets, jewelry, and more. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs to take home with you.
8. Visit the Mosque of Khoja Akhror
The Mosque of Khoja Akhror is a stunning mosque located at the site. It is believed to have been built in the 16th century and is decorated with intricate tilework and colorful mosaics. The mosque is a popular attraction for visitors to the site and is a great place to take a break and admire the beauty of the architecture.
9. Admire the Tilework
The tilework at Shah-i-Zinda is some of the most impressive in the region. The mausoleums, mosques, and madrasas are all decorated with intricate tilework and colorful mosaics. It’s a great place to take a break and admire the beauty of the architecture.
10. Take a Tour
The best way to explore Shah-i-Zinda is to take a guided tour. There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of the site, which will give you an in-depth look at the history and architecture of the site. The tours are a great way to learn more about the site and its significance.
Shah-i-Zinda is a stunning ancient site with a rich history and plenty of attractions for visitors. From exploring the mausoleums and mosques to admiring the tilework and taking a guided tour, there are plenty of things to do at the site. No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.