Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin

The Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin is a grand memorial complex situated in the historical heart of Khujand, Tajikistan. It was built on the resting place of Muslihiddin Khudjandi, a revered ruler of the city and a poet who lived in the 12th century. According to local legend, Sheikh Muslihiddin was a holy man with miraculous abilities. Initially, he was buried in the village of Undzhi, near Khujand, but his devotees later moved his remains to the city, constructing a mausoleum in his honor at this location during the 12th century. At that time, the mausoleum was a modest burial chamber made of burnt bricks and adorned with intricate terracotta decorations. Unfortunately, this original structure was destroyed during the Mongol invasions.

In the 14th century, the mausoleum was rebuilt, though with some minor modifications. The new structure consisted of two rooms, but it too fell victim to destruction. A more lasting reconstruction took place in the 16th century, when a new building was erected on the ruins of the old mausoleum. Unlike its predecessors, this structure was not only a burial site but also a place for prayers and ceremonial gatherings.

Today, the Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin has evolved into an impressive architectural complex. It features the Cathedral Mosque, easily recognizable by its striking blue domes, a 19th-century minaret that towers over 20 meters high, and ancient burial sites, with the Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin as the centerpiece. The current mausoleum is a two-story structure with a grand portal entrance and a large dome. Inside, the main hall, known as the ziyoratkhona, is a place for commemoration, while the burial chamber, or gurkhona, lies directly beneath the dome. At the heart of the room is a beautifully crafted wooden sarcophagus, embellished with intricate geometric carvings and vegetal patterns, along with delicate inlays that reflect the artistry of the region.

The surroundings of the mosque are always bustling with activity, and one unique tradition is feeding the pigeons that gather in large numbers around the site. Visitors can purchase bird feed from local vendors, and it is said that if you make a wish while feeding the birds, your wish may come true.

Opposite the domes and minarets of the memorial complex is the enormous Panjshanbe Bazaar, the largest covered market in all of Central Asia. The bustling market offers a vivid contrast to the serene atmosphere of the mausoleum, adding to the vibrancy and historical significance of the area.