At its peak as the capital of the mighty Khoresm state, Kunya Urgench was the center of learning for Islam as well as a great many other disciplines and arts. To cater to the large cultural, economic and religious community, the first academy of sciences of the east was established.

Just over 15 miles southwest of Dashoguz lies the town of Izmukshir, the birthplace of noted medieval Muslim scholar, Al-Zamakhshari. Dating back as far as the third century BC, the fortress city of Izmukshir, though ruined, contains madrasahs and mausoleums that have outlived countless dynasties and empires.

Built more than 700 years ago using ancient, medieval techniques, this unique cubic construction is one of the oldest in the region and has survived numerous invasions. Its brick patterned dome serves as a template for many similar buildings in Samarkand. Here lies Il Arslan, father of Sultan Tekesh.

Built for the ruthless sultan, Khoresmshakh Tekesh, this mausoleum combined with the mausoleum of Il-Arslan comprise the necropolis of the fearsome Khoresm leaders. It’s one of the last examples of pre-Mongol architecture and, at nearly 100 feet tall, once acted as a beacon in the desert.

In the midst of Kunya Urgench, once the most important city in the Islamic world, stands the astounding mausoleum, built for the princess Turabek Khanum and now the resting place of the Sufi kings. Built in the 14th century, the building is richly-decorated and steeped in myths and legends.

Built over three centuries, the Kutlug Timur minaret towers above Kunya Urgench’s main mosque. Richly decorated with belts of inscription, the minaret stands at nearly 200 feet high, making it the tallest in central Asia.

Built in the 14th century for the famous religious teacher Najamuddin Kubra who founded a significant Sufi order, the mausoleum is one of the most sacred buildings in Kunya Urgench. The walled compound creates a peaceful courtyard shaded by trees, and also contains the tomb of Sultan Ali.