Tourist Attractions in Khojand, Tajikistan
Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin
The Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin is a well-known monument in the city of Khojand, and it can be found just across from the main market. It was built in 1394, and the tomb of Sheikh Muslihiddin, which is khaki in colour, is located there. Muslihiddin was a poet and king who lived in the 12th century. People believed that he was a holy man who has supernatural abilities. Several times, his tomb was razed to the ground by invaders from other countries while it was being constructed. The current, contemporary structure includes, in addition to the main tomb, both a mosque and a medressa. The whole complex is a beautiful piece of architecture that has carved wooden pillars, a broad dome, and a great deal more. In the latter part of the 19th century, a tall minaret was built as part of this complex.
The Old Fort
The Old Fort at Khojand, which can be seen on the bank of the Syr-Darya River, was constructed in the 10th century. The excavations conducted at this site revealed that there was a human habitation here during the time of Alexander the Great. In the fourth century BC, his armies established a presence at this location. This location yielded a variety of artefacts, including utensils, weapons, and other objects. There were formerly around 7 gates and approximately 6 km of thick clay walls surrounding the fort. The rebel Uzbek warlord and the army men fought it out within the fort, and the fort was a witness to the bloodbath. A number of the buildings that make up the city of Khojand’s oldest surviving structures may be found here in their original locations today.
Museum of Archeology and Fortifications
The Museum of Archeology and Fortifications in Khojand, which can be found near the eastern entrance of the Old Fort, provides an informative and engaging introduction to the extensive history of the nation. There are numerous parts in this building that show photographs taken in the 19th century of the architectural design of the first fortification that was built in Khojand. There is a small fee required to purchase pamphlets written in English that provide information about the many exhibits housed inside the museum.
Historical Museum of Sughd Province
Sughd Province’s Historical Museum is located at one end of Khojand’s rebuilt city walls. The museum, which is situated in a historic structure, features a large collection of objects linked to Timur Malik’s life. Timur was the Moghul warrior who saved Khojand from the Moghuls. A replica of a traditional Tajik house is one of the museum’s most attractive exhibits.
Panchshanbe Bazaar
The Panchshanbe Bazaar is a popular tourist attraction in Khojand, and it is known for the wide variety of products available. The market is located on Kuchai Lenina’s southern end. In this market, you can easily discover a broad selection of textile materials, clothing, outfits, jewellery, cutlery, and other products. The major attraction of this market is a stunning hall that dates back to 1954. It has a stunning facade as well as arched doorways. On Thursday (Panchshanbe in Tajik), the market attracts throngs of locals, which is why the bazaar is known as Panchshanbe Bazaar.
Statue of Lenin
It was in the year 1974 that construction began on the Statue of Lenin, which is widely recognised as being the biggest statue in all of Central Asia. A couple of hundred metres beyond the bridge is where you’ll find the statue on the north bank of the Syr-Darya river. The monument, which stands at a height of 22 metres, is visible from a considerable distance and serves as a significant landmark for the city.
