The mausoleum within the Shirvanshah Palace Complex stands as the third most significant monument of the Shirvan Dynasty, representing a vital piece of the region’s historical tapestry. This impressive structure features a large rectangular stone design, topped with a striking hexahedral dome. Historically, the faces of the dome were adorned with vibrant turquoise enameling and intricate hexagonal stars, adding to its grandeur.
Above the entrance portal, an inscription nestled among beautifully engraved floral and leaf motifs reads: “The Greatest Sultan, the illustrious Shirvanshah, namesake of the Prophet of God, protector of the faith, Khalilullah I, ordered the construction of this radiant tomb for his mother and son in the year 839.”
At the heart of the mausoleum lies a funerary chamber featuring slabs topped with a small dome. However, the actual burial sites are concealed beneath the wooden floor of the tomb. Archaeological excavations revealed a crypt containing five burial sites: three designated for adults and two for children. In total, 14 burial locations were discovered, with researchers confirming that one of them is indeed the final resting place of Bikya-khanum, the mother of Khalilullah, along with other family members.
In a fascinating twist of history, the mausoleum later served as a madrasah, continuing its legacy as a center of learning and spirituality. This remarkable structure not only honors the memory of its esteemed occupants but also reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Shirvan Dynasty.
