Abul-Fazl Mausoleum

Constructed during the 11th and 12th centuries above the tomb of the revered Muslim mystic Abu-Fazl, the Abul-Fazl Mausoleum stands as a testament to medieval architectural excellence. Its grandeur and intricate detailing have established it as one of the most significant monuments not only in the Serakh oasis but throughout the Central Asian region.

Situated just 300 meters south of the formidable Old Serakhs citadel, the mausoleum is a quintessential example of the Serakh architectural school, which gained international renown during the Middle Ages. Despite its relatively modest size, the mausoleum impresses with its monumental presence, refined forms, and harmonious proportions. The construction of the mausoleum is precisely dated to 1024 AD.

In the 19th century, a memorial inscription on the mausoleum’s portal was deciphered, revealing that «in the year 1425 of the Timurid dynasty, by the order of Sultan Shahrukh, the building was repaired, expanded, and the portal was added.» This restoration was necessary due to the severe damage inflicted during the Mongol invasions of 1221. The mausoleum was meticulously restored by the Timurid rulers, who adorned both its interior and exterior with alabaster stalactites and reconstructed the portal, altering the structure significantly.

Recently, the mausoleum has undergone further restoration efforts. The current structure is a remarkable example of monumental design, beginning with a robust parallelepiped base. This base transitions into a hexahedron at a height of 5 meters, then morphs into a dodecahedron, and finally culminates in a cylindrical drum topped by a massive dome that symbolizes the celestial firmament.

The mausoleum is constructed entirely of fired bricks, with its walls featuring intricately patterned dual brickwork. It is encircled by a gallery connected by two spiral staircases located on either side of the entrance. Standing at a height of 14.07 meters, the mausoleum once was adorned with blue or turquoise tiles, a characteristic feature of similar mausoleums of the era. Unfortunately, these decorative tiles have not survived.