Samarkand, Samarkand, Central Asia, Uzbekistan
Necropolis · Timurid / Various · 11th-19th Century
Shah-i-Zinda (The Living King) is a necropolis in the north-eastern part of Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble includes mausoleums and other ritual buildings of 9-14th and 19th centuries. The name is connected with the legend that Qutham ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, is buried here.
Construction: 11th Century – 19th Century
Founder: Various
Key figures: Qutham ibn Abbas (Cousin of Prophet Muhammad)
Significance: A blessed site containing the tomb of Qutham ibn Abbas, known as the 'Living King'.
- 11th Century: Earliest buildings
- 14th-15th Century: Major Timurid construction
Architectural styles: Timurid, Persian
Materials: Majolica, Terracotta, Mosaic
- Avenue of Mausoleums: A narrow street lined with beautifully tiled mausoleums.
- Tomb of Qutham ibn Abbas: The holiest shrine in the complex.
- Turquoise Tiles: Stunning shades of blue tilework.
Opening hours: 08:00 - 19:00 (summer) · 09:00 - 17:00 (winter) – Dress modestly.
- General: €2.00
Accessibility: Stairs involved.
Official site: http://samarkand-museum.uz
Address: Shah-i-Zinda St, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Coordinates: 39.6642, 66.9878