 Samanids Mausoleum, Bukhara |
Samanids Mausoleum, Bukhara
The Samanids Mausoleum in Bukhara is of particular significance. Archeologists consider this one of the most ancient monuments of Uzbekistan, and a true gem for those who tour Bukhara. This world-renowned architectural masterpiece was constructed at the close of the ninth century, and has been completely restored. It was erected as a family crypt right after the death of the father of Ismail Samani, founder of the Saminid dynasty. Later on, both Ismail and his grandson were also buried there. It was against Islamic law at that time to erect crypts; however Ismail was merely following the example of one of the caliphs, who had already broken that prohibition in the middle of the ninth century by having a special mausoleum built.
Built after the Arab conquest, this monument signifies a new period in Central Asian architecture. Stunning in its refreshing simplicity, the Samanid Mausoleum is made of bricks, forming a nearly perfect cube. It is topped by a gently sloping large dome, surrounded by four smaller domes. The cube is decorated with columns. All elements used in the structure and design are based on diagonals and squares, which form geometric lines. The intricate design work is amazing. The total result of this masterpiece is beautiful; it is a pure, clean-lined and graceful structure. The monument is very rich in symbolism. The cube symbolizes the earth, or ground and soil. The dome represents the sky. Together the combination of earth and sky expresses the unity and harmony of the Universe. The decorative circles on the columns represent the sun and planets. The color of the mausoleum changes with the shifting sunlight as the day progresses into night, making the Saminid Mausoleum seem mysterious, and raising thoughts of spirituality and eternity. This is one of the sacred places of Holy Bukhara, and a must-see on your tour of Uzbekistan.
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