Najmaddin al-Kubra Mausoleum

The Najmaddin al-Kubra Mausoleum, built between the 12th and 13th centuries, is located in the northern part of Kunya-Urgench and serves as a pilgrimage site. Known as the 'Tomb of the Great Sheikh', it is the central architectural feature of the 360 Saints Memorial Complex, which also includes the Sultan Ali Mausoleum and an ancient cemetery.

Najmaddin al-Kubra (1145-1221) was a renowned philosopher, theologian, Sufi sheikh and founder of the Kubrawiya Order of Sufism in Khorezm. His name, which means 'star of religion' in Arabic, reflects his spiritual importance. He was declared a saint after his death, and many legends surround his life and death.

One story tells of his 360 scholars. After Khorezmshah Muhammad II falsely accused one of his most talented students and had him executed, the sheik cursed the state. Following the curse, the region succumbed to a Mongol invasion. When Genghis Khan learned that Najmaddin al-Kubra was in the city, he urged the sheikh to flee before the attack. But Najmaddin al-Kubra refused to leave. A Mongol warrior then beheaded the Sheikh, who was clutching the city's banner so tightly that even his severed fingers could not release it.

A mausoleum was later built on the site of the Sheikh's grave, which remains well-preserved to this day.

The Najmaddin al-Kubra mausoleum consists of four rooms, one of which contains a tombstone originally covered with tiles decorated with plant motifs. It is believed that this marks the spot where the saint's body fell, and a commemorative obelisk nearby indicates the location of his severed head.

In the mid-20th century, the dome of the mausoleum collapsed, damaging both tombstones. While the structure has largely survived the centuries, these tombstones now await restoration to preserve the legacy of the great Sufi scholar.