Exploring Turkestan in Kazakhstan: meeting the soul of Central Asia

Located in the heart of Central Asia, in the south of Kazakhstan, Turkestan is a must-see historic city for travelers.

With its impressive monuments, lively streets and traditional bazaars, Turkestan offers a unique immersion in Central Asian history and culture.

A short history of Turkestan

To fully discover the city of Turkestan, it is essential to understand its history.

Founded centuries ago, this Central Asian city has witnessed numerous eras, marked by significant religious and cultural events.

Its rich and complex past sheds light on its fascinating present.

• 5th century: Turkestan is first mentioned in ancient writings. Located along the Silk Road, it facilitates its development as a commercial crossroads between the East and the West.
• 8th-9th century: With the expansion of Islam in Central Asia, Turkestan becomes an important religious center, associated with the spread of Islam and the establishment of many Quranic schools.
• 14th century: Construction of the Mausoleum of Ahmed Yasawi, the famous Sufi mystic.
• 18th-19th century: Conquest by the Russian Empire. The city's administrative and religious roles are limited by Russian influence.
• 20th century: Soviet period. Although Turkestan remains a major historical site, its importance declines. The region becomes part of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic. However, the Mausoleum of Ahmed Yasawi is preserved and continues to be a place of remembrance, even though the Soviet state restricts access and religious activities.
• 1991: Independence of Kazakhstan. Turkestan regains its historical and cultural significance, becoming a popular tourist and religious destination for pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
• Late 20th century to present: The city experiences a revival. The Mausoleum of Ahmed Yasawi is designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003, and Turkestan is recognized as a spiritual city and cultural hub, with new infrastructure projects aimed at preserving its heritage while promoting tourism.

Turkestan's must-sees

The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi

In 1395, the Timurid emperor Tamerlane (Timur) ordered the construction of the Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, dedicated to the famous Sufi mystic Ahmed Yasawi.

This monument, one of the most important architectural works in Central Asia, saw its construction interrupted in 1405 on the death of the sovereign, but nevertheless became a major place of pilgrimage and a spiritual symbol for the region's Muslims.

In the surrounding area, there is also the semi-subterranean Hilvet Mosque.

Built in the 12th century, this unique site, partially buried underground, was where Khoja Ahmed Yasawi preached, wrote, and taught Sufism.

The mosque was hand-dug by Yasawi himself, and inside, wooden pillars are bathed in natural light through openings in the ceiling.

This modest place, steeped in history and spirituality, reflects Yasawi's humility and his central role in spreading the Sufi faith, in a context of devotion and learning.

History Museum

Not far from the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, there is a museum primarily dedicated to this iconic figure, but also covering Sufism and Islamic teachings.

The museum also displays models of other mausoleums in the city and the semi-subterranean Hilvet Mosque.

Mausoleum of Begum Rabia Sultan

This 15th-century mausoleum commemorates the wife of the first Khan of the Little Jüz, Abu-l-Khayr, and the mother of the Khans Kuchkunchi and Suyunish. It was erected by her sons over her tomb.

Initially in ruins, the mausoleum was rebuilt in a square form with multiple rooms. It includes five chambers and houses a wooden coffin.

This monument is one of the first to reflect the formation of the necropolis in Turkestan.‍

⚠️Un mausoleum is a place of meditation, and visitors are asked to follow a few rules. Visitors must remove their shoes, and women must wear a headscarf.

Karaivan Saray

The Karaivan Saray complex is one of the city's main attractions and a must-see for all visitors.

The buildings, linked by a canal on which an impressive water show, the “Parade of Boats”, takes place, recreate the atmosphere of the Silk Road, with a street of merchants and craftsmen, a “flying theater”, an amphitheater for equestrian shows, an oriental market, as well as stores, boutiques, hotels and restaurants. The complex also offers a spa and fitness center, a cinema and a leisure center for families.

The ruins of Otrar

Take the opportunity to visit Otrar, an ancient city located about 50 kilometers northwest of Turkestan.

Once a thriving cultural and commercial center, it was part of the medieval Silk Road and an important center of trade, science and art. The city was also a key administrative center during the Khwarezmian Empire, before being destroyed by the Mongols in the 13th century.

Today, the ruins of Otrar are an archaeological site, offering a glimpse into the history and rich heritage of the region.

A visit to the city can be completed in one day. Feel free to contact me for any questions, advice, or assistance in organizing this tour with a local partner. You can reach me via Instagram, Whatsapp or by mail (easternpathsdata@gmail.com)!

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