Mausoleum of Turabek-Khanym

For centuries, a captivating legend has been told about the construction of the Tyurabek-Khanim Mausoleum. According to the tale, the proud and beautiful daughter of Uzbek Khan promised to marry a young architect if he could build a magnificent palace in her honor. When the palace was completed, the young woman chose to marry her father’s viceroy instead. Heartbroken, the architect threw himself from the top of his creation, ending his life.

Of course, this is only a legend. In reality, the mausoleum was built by order of Kutlug-Timur, the ruler and husband of Tyurabek-Khanim, following her untimely death. Grieving his beloved, Kutlug-Timur commanded the finest architects and craftsmen to create a structure worthy of her memory. The result was the most beautiful and elegant building in the city, featuring:

• An open hexagonal hall
• Walls decorated with intricate mosaics
• Lavish decorations
• A massive dome covered with blue glaze

Although the dome is now largely ruined, much of the interior decoration remains intact.

Inside the dome, an oriental-style mosaic panel depicts an intricate pattern of flowers and stars - a masterpiece created by ancient Khorezmian artisans. The skill and artistry behind this work remains unparalleled, and no one has successfully replicated its delicate design.

The mausoleum is an example of the architectural style of the medieval East, which later influenced the work of builders during the Timurid era in Maverannahr.

Today, the Tyurabek-Khanim Mausoleum is both a place of pilgrimage and one of the most popular attractions in Kunya-Urgench, attracting tourists from all over the world.