Chor-Bakr, Islamic necropolis in Sumitan village near Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Chor-Bakr is an Islamic necropolis near Bukhara consisting of 40 hectares with 25 structures including mausoleums, a mosque, a madrasah, and a minaret arranged around fruit gardens. Multiple courtyards connect the buildings through covered passages, creating distinct zones within the overall complex.
Construction began in 1559 under the Shaybanid ruler Abdullaxon II, who invested significant resources in creating this elaborate memorial. The burial site itself dates back to 970 AD, giving the complex nearly 600 years of layered historical development.
The site holds deep spiritual significance as a pilgrimage destination where visitors come to honor ancestors and pay respects at the burial grounds. The layout and architecture reflect Islamic traditions of venerating holy figures, creating a solemn gathering place that remains important to local communities.
The complex spreads across a large area with multiple courtyards and passages to explore, so planning time to walk through all sections is important. Wear comfortable shoes since paths connect distant parts of the site, and some areas may be shadier or muddier depending on recent weather.
Two parallel ditches extending several kilometers connect this site to Bukhara, originally designed as shaded pathways for the ruler's journeys to the necropolis. These engineered routes reveal the effort invested in creating a dignified approach suitable for high-ranking visitors.
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