Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Mausoleum in Samarkand
The Khoja Doniyor Mausoleum, or Tomb of Daniel, on the eastern edge of the Afrasiab plateau above the Siab stream, is one of the most revered shrines in Samarkand. The present building dates from the early 20th century: a long rectangular hall with five small domes in a row, about fifteen metres long, decorated with carved stucco, sheltering an unusually long cenotaph. It is linked to Daniel, who appears in Muslim, Christian and Jewish tradition, so followers of all three faiths visit it. Another local account holds that Khoja Doniyor was a companion of Qutham ibn Abbas who came to Samarkand. Popular legend says the grave grows longer with time, which explains its length. The setting is peaceful: steps up from the road, an old pistachio tree loved by visitors, a spring at the foot of the hill that people consider blessed, and a view over the Siab valley.
It is a shrine, so dress modestly, keep quiet and take off your shoes inside the hall. Allow half an hour. It is outside the ticketed Afrasiab archaeological area; combine it with the Afrasiab Museum and the Ulugh Beg Observatory nearby by taxi.
Hours and prices change — check before you go. Source: en.wikipedia.org
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