Tomb of the Living King

Shakh-i-Zinda is a complex of stunning tile-covered mausoleums in Samarakand. Not far from Bibi Khanum mosque, Shakhi-Zinda has an avenue of buildings from the 11th to 15th centuries. Each building is decorated with intricate geometric patterns of colorful tiles.

You may think they all look the same, but when you are up close, you see the variety of patterns and architectural details.And they don't stop on the outside – inside the exquisite tile work continues on the walls and ceilings. Each mausoleum has a dome and the breathtaking, decorated interior domes were always the highlight for me in each building.

Built in 1372. One of the most beautiful buildings, built in honor of Temur's sister Turkon oko and her daughter Shodi Mulk oko.

Built by Timur at the end of the 14^th century for his sister Shirin Beka Oko.

Built in the 14^th century. The sides are open and underneath is a hilhona (burial chamber) is the shape of the circle.

Shakhi-Zinda means “The living King” in Persian.

Among the buildings of the ensemble this mausoleum differs by its elegant geometric form. Built by the architect Ali from Nasaf (Karshi) in the 60s - 70s of the 14^th century.

Built in the 11^th and 12^th centuries. Consists of mosque, mausoleum and a prayer room. Kusam Ibn Abbas (Shahi zinda - Living King) was one of the first missionaries of Islamic reglion in Central Asia.

Built in 1360-1361. According to some sources, one of Amir Temur's wives Kutlug oko could be buried here.

Built by Amir Temur's wife. The mausoleum was decorated by master Sheikh Muhammad Ibn Khodja Bandgir At - Tugri Tabrizi.

The mausoleums are a superb example of geometric patterns on Islamic architecture in Central Asia. It is one of the most popular sites in Samakand, so I definitely recommend visiting this place. Shah-i-Zinda is an important place of pilgrimage, so you will need to dress respectfully, with knees and shoulders covered. It can get very busy, so I would aim to come first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds. Especially if you want to photograph the interiors, as they can get really busy and cramped.