Barda Tower Mausoleum, Medieval mausoleum in Barda, Azerbaijan.
Barda Tower Mausoleum is a cylindrical structure that rises about 14 meters and features a distinctive exterior of colored glazed bricks in burnt and blue-green tones. Two entrance portals on opposite sides lead to an inner chamber and an underground burial chamber beneath the ground.
This mausoleum was built in 1322 by architect Ahmad Nakhchivani and exemplifies the architectural principles of the Nakhchivan school from Azerbaijan's medieval period. It represents a key example of the skilled stonework and decorative methods of that era.
Islamic calligraphy decorates the walls, with Arabic inscriptions and Quranic verses carved in an ancient script style. These religious texts remain visible and form an important part of the space's spiritual character.
The mausoleum has two clear entrance portals on opposite sides that both provide access to the interior spaces. Visitors should be aware that interior passages are quite tight and low ceilings are present in some areas.
The interior of the mausoleum reveals a surprising geometric transformation: the cylindrical shape shifts into a ten-sided form about 2 meters up, then returns to circular at the top. This change is invisible from outside and surprises visitors when they step inside.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
