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Garabaghlar Mausoleum: A Silent Witness to History

Discover the medieval marvel of Garabaghlar Mausoleum, a stunning testament to Azerbaijan's Islamic architecture and intricate artistry.

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The Garabaghlar Mausoleum, located in the village of Garabaghlar, is a captivating historical complex dating back to the 14th century, with minarets originating from the 12th century. This architectural marvel showcases the Nakhchivan-Maragha architectural school and the enduring influence of Islamic culture in the region.

A brief summary to Mausoleum in Garabaghlar

  • C5JR+4W9, Qarabağlar, 7402, AZ

Local tips

  • Visit in the late afternoon for the best light and photo opportunities, as the setting sun illuminates the blue tiles.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Alinja Castle for panoramic views of the Nakhchivan region.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the mausoleum and its surrounding complex.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Nakhchivan City, the most convenient way to reach the Garabaghlar Mausoleum is by taxi. Negotiate the fare beforehand; a typical one-way trip should cost around 15-20 AZN. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes, heading northwest on the main road towards Garabaghlar village. Direct the driver to Qarabağlar village (Гарабаглар кэнди) and then use the GPS coordinates 39.4302808, 45.1923586 to pinpoint the exact location of the mausoleum. Parking is available near the site.

  • Public Transport

    Alternatively, from Nakhchivan city, take a marshrutka (minibus) from the main bus station heading towards Sharur or Kangarli. Confirm with the driver that the marshrutka passes through or stops at Garabaghlar village. The fare is approximately 1 AZN. The journey takes around 1 hour. From the Garabaghlar village bus stop, it's approximately a 1 km walk to the mausoleum. Ask locals for directions, referring to the 'Qarabağlar türbəsi'. Be aware that marshrutkas may not run frequently, especially on weekends or holidays.

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Discover more about Mausoleum in Garabaghlar

Nestled approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Nakhchivan city, in the village of Garabaghlar, the Garabaghlar Mausoleum stands as a remarkable testament to Azerbaijan's rich medieval past. This partially demolished cylindrical structure, characterized by its twelve semi-circular facets, distinguishes itself from other mausoleums in Azerbaijan, creating a visually striking silhouette against the landscape. Inside, the mausoleum features a circular form, rising to a height of 30 meters. An epigraphic frieze once adorned the top of the cylinder, displaying white lettering against a blue background, reminiscent of the Barda Mausoleum. Four portals on the upper chamber are strategically placed, with lancet arches and stalactite-filled centers gracing the southern, western, and eastern entrances. These portals incorporate slats with inscriptions in both Neskh and stylized Kufi scripts, adding to the mausoleum's intricate detail. Approximately 30 meters from the mausoleum stand two minarets, their quadrangular foundations hinting at their 12th-century origins. A small portal, believed to have been constructed in the 14th century, connects the two minarets and bears the name of Qutui Khatun, possibly a wife of Abaqa Khan. This suggests that the complex may have been built in her honor during the reign of Abu Sa'id Bahadur Khan (1319-1335). The surface of the mausoleum is decorated with geometric ornaments covered with red and turquoise glazed bricks. The Garabaghlar Mausoleum is more than just a building; it is a repository of history and architectural innovation. The corrugated surface of the mausoleum enhances its visual appeal, a technique widely used in pre-feudal defense structures of the Trans-Caspian region. The mausoleum's structure is divided into two parts: a burial vault below and an overground section above. Visiting the Garabaghlar Mausoleum offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the artistic and cultural achievements of medieval Azerbaijan.

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