Complex of Dorut Tilavat — Local services in Shahrisabz City

Dor-ut Tilovat Ensemble, Shakhrisabz.

The Dor-ut Tilovat Ensemble in Shakhrisabz, Uzbekistan, is a significant religious and architectural complex that dates back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Its name means “Place of Recitation”, referring to the Quranic recitations held there.

The ensemble includes several key structures: The Kok Gumbaz Mosque (“Blue Dome Mosque”) – Built in 1435 by Ulugh Beg, the grandson of Timur, in honor of his father, Shah Rukh. It served as the main Friday Mosque of the city and is notable for its large blue dome. The Gumbazi-Seyidon Mausoleum – Located next to the Kok Gumbaz, this was built as a family tomb for descendants of Ulugh Beg. It features delicate tile work and elegant proportions. The Mausoleum of Shamsiddin Kulal – This is the tomb of the revered Sufi teacher and spiritual mentor of Timur. His importance in Timurid spirituality is reflected in the location and honor of this mausoleum within the ensemble. These monuments, together, the last remnants of an extensive architectural complex once form a harmonious space, reflecting the Timurid dynasty's devotion to Islam, science, and architecture.

This beautiful religious complex is one of Shakhrisabz’s most sacred sites and offers a historically rich glimpse into the spiritual life of the...

I visited the Dorut Tivalat complex with a private driver from Samarkand and was extremely disappointed with the experience. Upon arrival, a group of young men aggressively approached us, demanding payment to show us around. I firmly refused, as there was no official ticket booth or any indication that this was legitimate.

Once inside, a woman confronted me, demanding 30,000 UZS for the entrance fee. She threatened to call the police if I didn't pay. Under duress, I ended up paying her 20,000 UZS just to avoid further conflict.

This type of local behavior is utterly unacceptable and will surely deter tourists from visiting Uzbekistan. Such actions create a terrible impression of the country and its approach to tourism. I sincerely hope the authorities take note and make necessary improvements to ensure a safer and more welcoming experience for...

On the south side of the elongated city park is perhaps the most beautiful monument of the city: the Dorut Tilavat ("Prayer House for the Dead") Complex. The complex consists of the Kok Gumbaz Mosque, the name of the mosque is derived from the characteristic blue dome of the mosque, and a number of mausoleums. The oldest structure of the complex is the Shamsuddin Kulol Mausoleum, the building that Timur Lenk had built in 1373/74 for the burial of his teacher Shamsuddin Kulol and his father Amir Tarog'oy. The complex was expanded and completed by Ulugh Beg when the Kok Gumbaz Mosque and the Gumbazi Sayidon Mausoleum were built between 1435 and 1438. Both buildings bear witness to refined architecture. The Dorut Tilavat Complex is definitely...