The Tekturmas Mausoleum

The Tekturmas Mausoleum is a revered pilgrimage site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Taraz. It is believed to be built over the grave of Sultan Mahmud Khan, the commander of the Karakhanid forces, who was venerated as a saint. Sadly, the original mausoleum was demolished in 1935, but it was reconstructed years later, inspired by historical accounts and medieval architectural styles. The mausoleum takes its name from the hill on which it stands, “Tekturmas,” meaning “stands not without reason” in Kazakh. This hill is also home to the resting place of the brave Mambet Batyr, an ally of Abylai Khan. Initially buried elsewhere, his remains were later moved here.

The mausoleum, dedicated to Sultan Mahmud Khan, showcases the classic early Islamic architectural style. It features a square brick structure, crowned by a central dome and four smaller ones, with pointed arches adorning its niches. Perched atop a high hill on the right bank of the Talas River, the site offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Taraz, stretching out like a tapestry at their feet.

Researchers and archaeologists suggest that the hill has served as a burial ground for not only these two historical figures but for many others, given the hill’s role as an ancient necropolis. Dating back to the 10th–14th centuries, Tekturmas has revealed traces of Muslim, Zoroastrian, and Nestorian Christian graves, illustrating the site’s multicultural past. Some visitors claim to have seen a radiant elder figure here, while others report healing from various ailments after visiting this sacred place.

Tekturmas is also renowned for its mysterious underground passages, said to connect with the ancient shahristan (city) of Taraz. While these tunnels are currently closed, they may one day reopen to tourists, adding yet another layer of intrigue to the site.

During the era of Tekturmas’s establishment, a stone bridge was constructed nearby, linking the city to the surrounding valley. Positioned along the Silk Road, Taraz needed this bridge, especially during spring when the river swelled, making crossings difficult. Wisely, the rulers of that time imposed a toll on merchant caravans, generating revenue to support the city’s growth.

About 800 meters from the mausoleum lies the Tekturmas Ethno-Historical Complex. While it shares the same name, it is a separate location. The mausoleum serves as a sacred and historic site, whereas the complex is more of a leisurely area designed for walking and relaxation.