Sayram
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Kazakhstan, with a history dating back over two millennia.
Sayram, formerly known as Isfidzhab, has a history that stretches back over two millennia. It was a crucial center on the ancient Silk Road, serving as a bustling trade hub that connected the East and West. The town's strategic location made it a melting pot of various cultures, religions, and traditions, which is reflected in its diverse architectural and cultural landmarks."
This ancient city survived the Arab invasion, the devastating wars with Khorezm Shah Mohammed and the Karakitas, and the Jungar invasion under Tauke Khan. Now it is renowned for its historical significance and its religious, as well as ethnic, diversity. The city is home to many historical mosques, mausoleums, and other religious sites. Sayram is home to several historical monuments and sites that offer a glimpse into its storied past:
1. Ibrahim Ata Mausoleum: This mausoleum is dedicated to Ibrahim Ata, the father of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, one of the most revered Sufi saints in Kazakhstan. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and reflection, featuring beautiful architecture and a serene atmosphere.
2. Ancient Sayram: The remnants of the ancient city walls offer a tangible connection to Sayram's past. Walking along these ruins, visitors can imagine the town's former grandeur and its role as a fortified trading post on the Silk Road.
3. Historical Mausoleums and Mosques: Hundreds of prominent figures of Islam are buried in Sayram, with many saint mausoleums scattered around the city.