Momine Khatun Mausoleum, Seljuk mausoleum in Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan
The Momine Khatun Mausoleum is a ten-sided tower in Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan, rising 25 meters (82 feet) above the ground. Its red brick walls carry geometric patterns and script that run across all exterior sides, giving each section a different appearance.
The architect Ajami Nakhchivani built the structure in 1186 for a member of the Atabeg ruling family. The construction followed the traditions of the local school, which created several tall towers with rich surface design during this period.
The name recalls a woman from the ruling family, whose burial lies in the lower section. Visitors today see the plain chamber inside and the dense ornamentation outside, which together underline the religious meaning of the place.
Access to the cylindrical chamber inside and the crypt below gives insight into how the tower is built. A walk around the building allows you to observe the different patterns on each side and follow the sequence of ornament.
The script in Kufic form extends 500 meters along the outer surfaces and consists of Quranic verses woven into the entire brick relief. This length surprises many visitors who at first notice only the geometric shapes and discover the continuous text band upon closer inspection.
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