Built in 500 BC, the city of Turkestan is one of the most ancient cities of the Great Silk Road.
After arrival and a pleasant transfer ride, you will be accommodated at the hotel and have free time to relax before a busy program.
The second day we will start with a sightseeing tour of the city. Founded over 1500 years ago, it is replete with historical buildings. At one time, Turkestan (also known as Yassy or Shavgar) was the capital of the Kazakh Khanate, the ceremonies of their accession to the throne were held here, and it was here that the ambassadors of foreign states were sent. And some pilgrims believe that three trips to Turkestan are equal to one small Hajj in Mecca.
Speaking of Islam. Another important Islamic mausoleum in Turkestan, which we will visit, is the resting place of Saint Arystan Baba, the teacher of Khoja Akhmet Yassaui. The legend says that the prophet Mohammed himself called Arystan-babu to convey a blessing to the young Yassaui. Here you can also see an amazing example of the Koran - it is displayed under glass.
Further, our path lies to the Ancient city of Otrar (4th century BC). It was a major center of trade on the Great Silk Road. It is one of the most developed cities of the Middle Ages. It is famous for its mint, huge library, and is also the birthplace of the great philosopher Abu Nasr al-Farabi. Today, these ruins are a kind of open-air museum.
Each journey changes a person a little, and the sacred Turkestan with its centuries-old history is no exception. On the third day, we depart from the city with the thought that we will certainly return here again!
