Mausoleum of Makhmud Pakhlavan

The Mausoleum of Makhmud Pakhlavan in Khiva is a significant historical and architectural monument, distinguished by its unique blue dome. While blue domes are a common feature in the architecture of Samarkand and Bukhara, Khiva boasts only one, which adorns the tomb of Makhmud Pakhlavan, a renowned poet and warrior from the 14th century. Numerous legends celebrate his strength and bravery. One such legend recounts how Pakhlavan defeated an Indian ruler, who then offered him any reward he desired. Pakhlavan requested the release of his countrymen from prison. When asked how many should be freed, he replied, «All those who can fit into a cow skin.» He then cut the skin into thin strips, tied them into a large belt, and wrapped it around all the prisoners, thereby rescuing many from captivity. Following his death, Pakhlavan was canonized by the Muslim clergy.