15.05.2026

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, together with the heads of delegations of the member states of the Organization of Turkic States, visited the historical and cultural center of Turkestan.

The distinguished guests toured the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, one of the greatest monuments of Islamic architecture in Central Asia and the main spiritual symbol of Kazakhstan.

The mausoleum, erected in the late 14th century by order of Amir Timur, is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is regarded as one of the most outstanding monuments of medieval Islamic architecture in Central Asia. Its construction began in 1389–1391 and continued until the end of the 14th century. Masters from Central Asia, as well as architects and decorators from other regions, participated in the creation of the complex.

The leaders paid tribute to the memory of the outstanding Sufi poet and thinker.

The heads of delegations then toured the visitor center of the Hazrat Sultan Museum-Reserve, where modern facilities have been created for receiving visitors, holding exhibitions, and showcasing the rich historical and cultural heritage of Turkestan.

A special feature of the center is the Hall of Rare Exhibits, established as a permanent museum exhibition dedicated to preserving, studying, and promoting the unique heritage of the medieval era.

The exhibition features rare historical relics associated with the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, including authentic artifacts from the 14th and 15th centuries, examples of medieval decorative art, ceramics, and architectural ornamentation. Among the exhibits are the original door of the tomb, the burial shroud of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, bronze candlesticks presented by Amir Timur, as well as archaeological and ceramic finds revealing the ancient history of Turkestan.

It was noted that such monuments and cultural projects are of great importance for preserving spiritual heritage, strengthening historical memory, and further bringing together the fraternal peoples connected by common roots, faith, and traditions.