Nakhichevan

Throughout its history, Nakhchivan has witnessed the reign of numerous kings, viziers, and khans. Therefore, it is no surprise that the city features not only the tomb of Noah but also many splendid mausoleums. Among the most renowned are the Momine Khatun Mausoleum, built between 1186 and 1187, and the tomb of Yusuf ibn Kuseyir, erected slightly earlier in 1162. Both structures are indisputable masterpieces of Eastern architecture.

The most legendary of these mausoleums, Noah’s mausoleum, is located near the Old Fortress (or Köchna-Gala) in the southern part of the city. It is said that the tower built in 2006 stands on the site of an ancient sanctuary, with the tomb constructed from the remnants of its lower level. At the center of the mausoleum stands a massive stone column, under which the relics of Noah are believed to rest.

The exact date of the fortress’s construction remains unknown to archaeologists. However, excavations in the late 1950s uncovered elements of stone hammers and faience pottery dating back up to 5,000 years. The surviving walls measure 1 meter in width, with sections adjoining the city reaching 4 meters.

The Momine Khatun Mausoleum is situated in the western part of the city. According to historical records, this tomb was commissioned by one of the local rulers, Atabek of Azerbaijan Jahan Pehlavan from the Ildegizid dynasty, to immortalize the memory of his mother, Momine Khatun. The decagon-shaped mausoleum consists of a crypt and an above-ground section. Originally, the structure reached a height of 34 meters, but today it stands at just 25 meters due to the loss of its dome. Visitors to Nakhchivan should not miss this artistic marvel, as its walls are adorned from floor to ceiling with intricate geometric patterns and inscriptions from the Quran—truly a breathtaking sight.

Equally deserving of attention is the mausoleum of Yusuf ibn Kuseyir, which dates back nearly 800 years. This octagonal structure, built from baked brick, culminates in a pyramidal roof. The upper section of the tomb features inscriptions—quotations from the Quran. The western façade is embellished with geometric designs, while the interior is divided into a spacious upper chamber and a crypt. The identity of the individual for whom this mausoleum was built remains a mystery.

Both mausoleums were designed by one of the greatest architects in Azerbaijan’s history, if not the entire East—Ajemi ibn Abubekr Nakhchivani. His contemporaries referred to him as Sheikh-ul-Muhandis, meaning “head of engineers.” It is believed that he is the author of the inscription carved on the Momine Khatun Mausoleum: “We will leave—this world will remain; we will die—this will remain in memory.“

Among Ajemi’s creations is the Juma Mosque, or Friday Cathedral Mosque, in Nakhchivan, one of the monumental structures from the Atabek dynasty. Unfortunately, this magnificent architectural ensemble did not survive; the mosque was destroyed in the 20th century, and today we can only admire it through photographs.

For enthusiasts of medieval architecture, the Kirna Mausoleum, located in the village of the same name in the Julfa district, is a must-see. This tower-shaped mausoleum, constructed from baked brick and featuring 16 sides, has an uncertain date of construction, though archaeologists believe it was built in the 13th century.

Another essential site to visit is the Imamzadeh Mausoleum, an outstanding example of Eastern architecture that evolved over two centuries, from the 16th to the 18th century. The complex comprises several buildings, with the central structure housing a tomb topped by a traditional dome. To the left lies another mausoleum that contains the remains of several Nakhchivan khans, and the area was once surrounded by a cemetery. Researchers suggest that during the Middle Ages, the Imamzadeh complex served as a temple where monks lived and prayed.

Of course, while enjoying your time in Nakhchivan, you must witness the grandeur of the Khan’s Palace. This monumental historical and architectural site from the 18th century served as the permanent residence of the Nakhchivan khans for centuries. The palace was commissioned by Kelbala Khan Kengerli, the father of the last Nakhchivan khan, Ehsan Khan. The palace ensemble includes several buildings, a pool, a well, and a small garden filled with fruit trees. Historically, the palace was divided into two sections: the southern part was used for discussing important state matters and receiving guests, while the northern section housed the ruler and his entourage.

Nakhchivan’s existence for nearly five thousand years is not only echoed in ancient legends and ruins but also in its rock carvings. Anyone wishing to touch this living history can do so by visiting Mount Gyamigaya. On its southern and eastern slopes, archaeologists have discovered over 1,500 rock engravings, the oldest of which date back to the 4th to 1st millennia BC.