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Tomb of Rabia Balkhi: A Shrine to Love and Poetry

Visit the Tomb of Rabia Balkhi in Balkh, Afghanistan, and honor the legacy of a pioneering Persian poetess and her timeless verses of love and courage.

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The Tomb of Rabia Balkhi, located in Balkh, Afghanistan, is dedicated to Rabia Balkhi, a 10th-century Persian poetess celebrated for her passionate verses and tragic love story. The tomb is a simple, turquoise-tiled structure that serves as a pilgrimage site for those who admire her literary contributions and the courage she displayed in defying societal norms.

A brief summary to Tomb of Rabia Balkhi - مقبره رابعه بلخی

Local tips

  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting the shrine.
  • Consider learning a few basic Persian phrases to better connect with locals and appreciate Rabia Balkhi's poetry.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Shrine of Khwaja Abu Nasr Parsa (Green Mosque) to explore more of Balkh's Sufi heritage.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Tomb of Rabia Balkhi is located adjacent to the Shrine of Khwaja Abu Nasr Parsa (Green Mosque) in Balkh. From the Green Mosque, walk east; the Tomb of Rabia Balkhi will be visible within a few minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Balkh city center, a taxi to the Tomb of Rabia Balkhi is a convenient option. Taxis are readily available. A short taxi ride within the city typically costs between 50 to 200 AFN, depending on the distance and negotiation. Ensure the driver knows the location of the Green Mosque, as the tomb is nearby.

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Discover more about Tomb of Rabia Balkhi - مقبره رابعه بلخی

The Tomb of Rabia Balkhi is a modest shrine honoring Rabia Balkhi, a pioneering figure in Persian literature. Rabia, who lived in the 10th century, is considered the first woman poet of the Persian language. Her life and love poems have resonated through the centuries, making her a symbol of courage, passion, and the power of artistic expression. Rabia's story is as compelling as her poetry. Born into a wealthy Arab family in Balkh, she was highly educated and possessed talents in poetry, painting, swordsmanship, and horse riding. Her love affair with Bektash, a Turkish slave owned by her brother, led to her tragic demise. Enraged by their relationship, her brother imprisoned her and ordered her veins to be cut. Legend says that Rabia wrote her last poem on the walls of her prison cell with her own blood. The tomb itself is a simple yet evocative structure, reflecting traditional Afghan architectural styles. The turquoise tiles adorning the exterior add a touch of serenity to the site. Inside, the tomb is covered with a green cloth, and visitors often engage in practices common to Central Asian shrines, such as tying cloths, leaving locks, and offering prayers. The surrounding gardens provide a tranquil space for contemplation and reflection. Visiting the Tomb of Rabia Balkhi offers a glimpse into Afghanistan's rich literary and cultural history. It's a place to reflect on the enduring power of love, the importance of artistic expression, and the courage of a woman who defied societal norms to follow her heart. The site serves as a reminder of Balkh's historical significance as a hub of education and enlightenment during the Persian Empire.

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