Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble of Mausoleums

The Shah-i-Zinda ensemble of mausoleums is a complex of ancient tombs with bright, memorable interiors. This place has long become one of the main attractions of Samarkand, and the view of the three northernmost mausoleums can be called the hallmark of the city.

History of the complex

The origin of this place is associated with an interesting legend. It is believed that once upon a time, the mortally wounded Kusam ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, took refuge underground in these very places. At the same time, he continues to live here to this day. The name of the complex — Shah-i-Zinda — translates as "the living king", and on Kusam's tomb there is a phrase from the Quran: "And never think of those who have been killed in the cause of Allah as dead. Rather, they are alive!".

Изображение

The territory of the complex is a long street laid between numerous buildings. Travelers can go inside many of the buildings and admire the vibrant decoration of the mausoleum interiors. At the starting point of the route, there is a high staircase. Guidebooks often mention another legend associated with this place: visitors can make a wish and count the steps when going down and up the stairs. If the number matches, the wish will definitely come true.

The Shah-i-Zinda complex is easy to reach by taxi, which is quite cheap in Samarkand. If you are more used to traveling by public transport, there is a bus stop called "Shah-i-Zinda Complex" not far from the entrance.

Entrance to the territory is paid; the ticket office accepts cash and international bank cards.

Изображение

The Shah-i-Zinda ensemble of mausoleums is conveniently added as the last point of a walking route around Samarkand: start the walk from the Gur-e-Amir mausoleum, pass through Registan Square, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, and finish the walk by exploring the ancient tombs.