Mausoleum of Khoja Abdi Darunee

The Khoja Abdi Darunee Memorial Ensemble, a revered site in Samarkand, traces its origins to the 12th century, adjacent to the mausoleum of Khoja Abdi, also known as Abd-al Mazeddina. Legend has it that Sheikh Abdi-Darunee, a distinguished scholar of the Quran and Sharia law, journeyed from the Arabian Peninsula to Samarkand in the 9th century. Here, he assumed the role of a judge, imparting justice and wisdom. The epithet «Darunee» translates to «internal,» signifying that his tomb is ensconced within Samarkand’s ancient city walls.

Originally erected in the 12th century, the mausoleum underwent significant reconstruction in the 15th century, altering its appearance from its initial form. Today, it stands as a modest square structure crowned with a pyramidal dome. The interior is unadorned, devoid of gold or ceramic embellishments, with a large gravestone dominating the space.