The Mausoleum of Karakhan Ata is located 44 km northwest of the city of Turkistan, within the territory of the Zhibek Zholy rural district, approximately 200–300 meters east of the ancient city of Sauran. Coordinates 43˚31.022΄, 067˚46.540΄.At the site, the remains of ruined mausoleums built of baked bricks have been preserved, along with traces of unmarked burials. The necropolis, enclosed by walls made of adobe bricks (pakhsa), covers an area of 60 x 80 meters, but today only earthen ramparts remain from the original enclosure. According to local legend, in the largest tomb lies Karakhan Ata. The story tells that long ago, a severe disease known as “Karakhan disease” struck the livestock of Sauran. Once one shepherd decided to bring his herd to spend the night near the Mausoleum of Karakhan Ata, after which the animals were spared from the illness. Since then, this site has been regarded as sacred and has become a place of pilgrimage. Among the locals, it is also known as “Karakhan Ata” or “Karakhan Auliye”.
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The necropolis is associated with the names of several respected people of Sauran, including Khan of the White Horde Sasy Buka, who played an important role in the city’s history (d. 1320). In foundations of some mausoleums preserved traces of underground crypts (murdekhana). Archaeological data indicates that the Karakhan Ata necropolis began to form even before the origion of the city of Sauran. In stories, Karakhan Ata is mentioned as one of the “Nine Sacred Saints of Sauran”, who are especially revered in the region.
References:
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