Kyrk Molla

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Kyrk Molla: The Sacred Hill of Kunya-Urgench

Kyrk Molla hill
Kyrk Molla hill

Kyrk Molla, meaning «40 mullahs» in Turkic, is a revered site located northeast of Kunya-Urgench, near the Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum. Covering an area of approximately 3 hectares, the hill rises to a height of 12.5 meters.

This historic location was once the heart of ancient Gurganj, the former name of Kunya-Urgench. Archaeological excavations on the hill have unearthed remnants of an ancient rampart and an altar. During the Middle Ages, the site was home to the renowned Mamun Library.

Local legend tells of a dramatic event during the Mongol invasion when 40 scholars residing in the library prayed fervently for the preservation of the invaluable manuscripts housed there. As the invaders drew near, the library was said to have miraculously collapsed and vanished underground, protecting its treasures from destruction.

Kyrk Molla hill
Kyrk Molla, cemetery
Kyrk Molla, cemetery
grave near Kyrk Molla
Tombs for a family that died together, tombs for males have ladders, while childrens' tombs are smaller than adults
Konye-Urgench is an active cemetery and shrine; the piles of rocks are a ritual to get rid of bad habits
Go straight and far and you'll have a healthy child
Kyrk Molla, Rolling Down the Hill
"Wish stones" on Kyrk Mollah hill, which is considered as a very holy place

At the base of Kyrk Molla lies a cemetery, which attracts numerous pilgrims. Particularly notable is a unique ritual performed by women who struggle with infertility. After offering prayers to Allah, these women wrap themselves in a cloak or blanket and roll down the hill, believing this act may bring them divine intervention. Men also visit the hilltop to pray, seeking spiritual aid for various personal petitions.

Gutleg Timur Minaret

Kunya-Urgench Tour

From$130
6 hours

Journey through Kunya-Urgench’s ruins
Admire medieval Islamic architecture
Visit Turabek-Khanum Mausoleum
Discover Kutlug-Timur Minaret
Learn at Khorezm History Museum

Explore the ancient city of Kunya-Urgench, once a flourishing hub of trade and culture. Visit preserved Islamic monuments, grand mausoleums, and historic sites that tell the story of a once-great civilization now frozen in time.
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