Samanid Mausoleum was constructed in the 9th century in line with the order of founders of Samanid dynasty, Ismail Samani. The building is in the park, which was ancient cemetery and is the burial place of the famous dynasty (875-999).
Inside there are three graves, one of which belongs to the son of Ismail Samani - Ahmad ibn Ismail. However, it is not clear if Ismail himself was buried here.
When Genghis Khan approached the city, residents of Bukhara covered Samanids Mausoleum with the ground. They knew that the Great Mongol troops would destroy everything in their path. Therefore, instead of the beautiful building, the army saw a small mound - hill and passed by. When the danger passed, the Bukhara citizens carefully excavated it.
Architecture
Construction of the monument fell to revival of Central Asian architecture after the Arab conquest of the region. The form of construction was not chosen randomly. Cube symbolizes peace, the Earth. A dome symbolizes the sky. Together, they are the symbol of the unity of the universe. Thus, the mausoleum represents a small model of the world.
It is worth to mention that decorative materials were not used for finishing works. Colored smalt, mosaic or glazed tiles, which are typical to Oriental architecture, were not used here.
The entire facade is decorated with ornamental brickwork. With its help, the ancient masters created an amazing openwork pattern. Even from the distance, it is striking with its precision and refinement.
Samanids Mausoleum was discovered and reconstructed in the 20th century. Earlier, it was completely hidden by centuries-old cultural layer.
As in the early medieval period, Samanid Mausoleum is one of the architectural masterpieces of Central Asia. It is a true pearl of the world architecture.
