Kunya-Urgench

Kunya-Urgench is an ancient city that once stood on the banks of the Amu Darya River and, at its peak, covered 1,500 hectares. A thousand years ago, it was among the largest cities in the world, and travelers from the East called it the 'Heart of the World.'

Now it is a popular destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, only several monuments survive: the mausoleums of Khwarezm rulers, a 60-meter-high minaret, and other landmarks. Located in northern Turkmenistan near the Uzbek border, it is usually visited after the Darvaza Gas Crater or as a day trip from Nukus or Khiva.

Historical Monuments (12th-16th centuries)

The site is a historical and architectural reserve featuring monuments from the 12th to 16th centuries. Notable landmarks include:

• Kyrk Molla Hill - 1st millennium BC pilgrimage site
• Kutlug-Timur Minaret - Tallest in Central Asia at 60 meters (14th century)
• Turabek-Khanym Mausoleum - Daughter of Uzbek Khan (14th century)
• Tekesh Mausoleum - Late 12th century
• Il-Arslan Mausoleum - 12th century
• Najm al-Din al-Kubra Mausoleum - Well-preserved 12th-13th century pilgrimage site
• Sultan Ali Mausoleum - Unfinished 16th century structure