Khodja Doniyor Mausoleum, Religious mausoleum near Siab river, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
The Khodja Doniyor Mausoleum is a brick structure with five domes positioned along the eastern edge of Afrosiab fortress. The site sits near the Siab river, which flows through the landscape surrounding this religious sanctuary.
Local tradition holds that this tomb houses remains brought to Samarkand by Amir Timur in the 14th century. Since then, the site has developed into a destination for pilgrims and remains woven into the fabric of the ancient settlement.
The mausoleum draws pilgrims from three religions, as the figure honored here is called Doniyor in Islam, Daniel in Christianity, and Daniyar in Judaism. This shared veneration is visible in how visitors of different faiths approach the site with mutual respect.
Visitors should remove their shoes before entering, so wearing slip-on footwear makes the experience easier. Access to the site is straightforward via marked paths along the Siab river that connect to the main areas of the city.
The marble sarcophagus inside is notably large, and local belief holds that the tomb continues to grow over time. This folk belief has become part of the site's story and adds to its spiritual character.
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