In every corner of Turkmenistan, there are sacred places steeped in ancient legends and traditions. One such place is nestled in the Balkan Velayat, along the transitional ridge of the Kopetdag Mountains. Amidst the eternal rocks, harmoniously blending with the picturesque mountain landscape, stands a small white mosque named after a courageous woman, Paraw-Bibi.
Once, a healing spring flowed here, its waters believed to possess miraculous powers. Though the spring has long dried up, the ancient mausoleum continues to attract new generations of pilgrims. The Paraw-Bibi shrine is revered as the protector of motherhood, and women come here to pray for the child they long for—whether it be a firstborn, a son when only daughters have been born, or a second child.
According to legend, Paraw-Bibi, a beautiful woman who once lived in these parts, was promised to the advancing enemies as a peace offering. Determined to resist, she retreated into the mountains, but was betrayed by a woman she knew. In her desperation, Paraw-Bibi prayed to Allah, who, in his mercy, parted the rocks, allowing her to enter and remain hidden forever.
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