Kazakhstan - Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmad Yasawi

Model of Khoja Ahmad Yasawi Mosque and Mausoleum

14th century AD / 8th century AH, Kazakhstan.

Sent by Serg from Karaganda, Kazakhstan.

The mausoleum of Khoja Ahmad Yasawi, a renowned 12th-century Sufi master, is located in southern Kazakhstan, in the northeastern part of the city of Yasi (Turkestan). It was built between 1389 and 1405 on the orders of Timur (Tamerlane), then ruler of Central Asia, to replace a smaller 12th-century mausoleum. Construction of the mausoleum, interrupted in 1405 by the sovereign's death, was never completed. The property (0.55 ha) is limited to the mausoleum, situated within the ancient citadel and archaeological zone of the medieval city of Yasi. The latter (79.36 ha) serves as a buffer zone.

Rectangular in plan and 38.7 meters high, the mausoleum is one of the largest and best-preserved examples of Timurid architecture. Timur is said to have personally overseen its construction, which employed master Persian craftsmen. The innovations introduced in its spatial organization, vaults, domes, and decoration served as prototypes for other major buildings of the Timurid period, particularly in Samarkand. The unfinished sections provide insights into the construction techniques then in use, contributing to its unique architectural character (read more).

Kazakhstan - Karaganda

Meeting of Karaganda Postcrossers

10th February 2024

Sent by Sergej from Karaganda, Kazakhstan.

Karaganda (also known as Karagandy) is a major city in central Kazakhstan and the capital of the Karaganda Region. It is the fifth-most populous city in the country, with a population of 497,777 as of the 2020 Census, marking an increase from 459,778 in 2009 and 436,864 in 1999. Karaganda is located approximately 230 kilometers (140 miles) southeast of Kazakhstan's capital city, Astana.

Historically, Karaganda has been a central hub for coal mining, which has shaped its economy and development. The city saw significant growth during the Soviet Union, driven by the expansion of its coal industry. Coal remains a key sector in the city's economy, with mining continuing to be a significant contributor to its industrial base.

In addition to its industrial roots, Karaganda is home to a growing population and a rich cultural heritage. The city hosts several educational institutions, such as Karaganda State University, which support its role as an academic and research center in central Kazakhstan. Karaganda’s infrastructure and economy have been evolving, with modernization efforts in various sectors, including transportation, healthcare, and housing.

Karaganda is also known for its historical significance, having played an important role in the industrial development of the Soviet Union. Today, it stands as a key city in Kazakhstan, contributing to the country’s economy while maintaining its historical and cultural heritage (read more).

Kazakhstan - Karaganda - Karaganda Hotel

Karagnada Hotel in Karaganda, Kazakhstan.

The fifth of the five postcards sent by Amir from Karaganda in Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan - Lake Baceen

Lake Baceen in the Karkaraly National Park in Kazakhstan.

The fourth of the five postcards sent by Amir from Karaganda in Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan - Karaganda Circus

Circus building in Karaganda, Kazakhstan.

The third of the five postcards sent by Amir from Karaganda, Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan - Astana

An aerial view of the city of Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan.

The second of the five postcards sent by Amir from Karaganda in Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan - Бəйтерек

Bayterek (Kazakh: Бəйтерек, "tall poplar [tree]"), a monument and observation tower in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. A tourist attraction popular with foreign visitors and native Kazakhstanis alike, it is a common symbol of the city and itself in turn symbolizes Astana's new status as the capital of Kazakhstan.

The first of the five postcards sent by Amir from Karaganda in Kazakhstan.