Uzbekistan Entry #3 – The Shakhi-Zinda Complex, Samarkand

For the best tile work in Uzbekistan, the Shakhi-Zinda complex in Samarkand is a must-see destination.  The Prophet’s cousin, Kusam ibn Abbas, is buried here on a gentle slope of the hill where ancient Samarkand was originally founded but then razed to the ground by Genghis Khan’s Mongol invasion.  This complex is considered the most holy mosque in all of Central Asia and pilgrims from all around came here to be close to the Prophet.  It is said that Kusam had the most similar likeness and character to the Prophet.  He took part in the first Arab campaigns and then came here to preach the Islam faith.  He was killed by his enemies while preaching Islam and, to this day, imams lean on staffs when they preach because they once wielded swords for protection and for converting the doubters.    By the 10^th Century AD, Kusam was considered a martyr, Islamic saint and the patron of Samarkand.  A mausoleum was erected by the 11^th Century AD, a small dome tomb. Find more at http://www.delightinhim.com/uzbekistan-entry-3-the-shakhizinda-complex-samarkand-.html