A hillside street of Timurid mausoleums covered in carved terracotta and blue-turquoise tile.
Shah-i-Zinda, the Tomb of the Living King, is a narrow avenue of mausoleums climbing a hillside in the Afrosiyab district of Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The complex grew around the shrine of Kusam ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad traditionally said to have brought Islam to the region. Most of the 20-odd buildings date from the 11th to 15th centuries, with the richest tilework from the Timurid period, when relatives, generals and courtiers of Timur were laid to rest here. Visitors climb a stairway of 36 steps, pass under an arched portal built in 1434-1435 by Ulugh Beg, and enter the street of tombs where every facade is covered in carved terracotta, blue and turquoise glazed tile and majolica. The tomb of Qusam ibn Abbas at the far end remains an active pilgrimage site, so dress is modest and visitors should be respectful of worshippers. The walk through all the mausoleums takes about 45-60 minutes. Mornings and late afternoon are the most atmospheric, and the narrow alley is best photographed when tour groups have not yet arrived.
| Admission | About 50,000-80,000 UZS (~$4.20-6.70) for foreign visitors |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily, about 08:00-19:00 |
| Typical visit | 45-60 minutes |
| Best time | Opening time or last hour before closing |
| Getting there | Taxi about 10,000-15,000 UZS (~$0.85-1.25) from the Registan; 25-30 minute walk from Bibi-Khanym |
| Address | Shohizinda Street, Afrosiyab, Samarkand, Uzbekistan |
Location
Shohizinda Street, Afrosiyab, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
39.6625, 66.9878 View on map
Highlights
- Avenue of mausoleums with carved terracotta and glazed tile
- Entry portal and stairway of 36 steps
- Shrine of Kusam ibn Abbas, still a pilgrimage site
- Timurid-era tiles in blue and turquoise
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at opening or in the last hour for fewer groups in the narrow alley.
- Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees; women may be asked to cover hair at the shrine.
- Wear shoes with grip; the stairs and old paving are worn.
- Ask before photographing worshippers.
- Allow 45-60 minutes and combine with the Afrosiyab Museum and the Ulugh Beg Observatory nearby.
When to visit
Early morning or the last hour before closing; spring and autumn.
Accessibility
The complex climbs a hillside via a stairway of 36 steps and uneven paving. Wheelchair access is limited; a side road lets some visitors reach the upper end by vehicle.
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Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the Living King?
It refers to Kusam ibn Abbas, whom legend says did not die but entered a well to live on; the shrine is still visited by pilgrims.
How much is the ticket?
Typically about 50,000-80,000 UZS (~$4.20-6.70) for foreign visitors.
How long should I allow?
45 to 60 minutes.
Can I take photos?
Yes, in the alley and facades; ask before photographing worshippers.