The carved terracotta
Patterns like lace.
Дмитрий Кошелев — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Дмитрий Кошелев — CC BY-SA 4.0 · upyernoz from Haverford, USA — CC BY 2.0 · upyernoz from Haverford, USA — CC BY 2.0 · Stomac — CC BY 3.0
The Aisha Bibi Mausoleum is an 11th or 12th-century building in the village that bears its name, 18 km west of Taraz on the Silk Road. One of Kazakhstan's loveliest old monuments, it is known locally as a symbol of love and faithfulness, and sources say couples visit on their wedding day. Legend says Aisha, daughter of the Sufi poet Hakim-Ata, set out to marry the ruler of Taraz, Karakhan, against her father's wishes, and a snake bit her by the Assa River before she arrived. The ruler then ordered this tomb in her memory. One researcher links the tale to a report of the death in 1034 of a daughter of the ruler of Talas, while the story itself remains folklore. The exterior is covered in carved terracotta with more than 60 floral and geometric patterns and script, giving the effect of lace. The decoration relies on light and shadow rather than colour, a pre-Mongol style, and the corner columns echo Sogdian timber columns. The building was heavily restored from 2000 to 2002, and now has a conical roof and a rose garden around it. It is 18 km from Taraz, so take a taxi or tour, and pair it with the Babazhi Khatun Mausoleum a few metres away. Morning or late afternoon is best for pictures, when side light brings out the carving. Dress modestly, as this is a place of visitation, and keep your voice down at the tomb.
Patterns like lace.
Echoing Sogdian timber.
Around the two tombs.
Aisha Bibi village, 18 km west of Taraz, Jambyl Region
Legend says a snake bit her before she could marry the ruler of Taraz, who built her this tomb.
Parts are old, but it was heavily restored from 2000 to 2002.