Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain in Kyrgyzstan

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2009
Size of heritage: 112 ha
- Buffer zone: 4,788 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 72,783°
Latitude: 40,531°

Summary

Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain Kyrgyzstan dominates the Fergana Valley and forms the backdrop to the city of Osh, at the crossroads of important routes on the Central Asian Silk Roads. For more than one and a half millennia, Sulaiman was a beacon for travellers revered as a sacred mountain. Its five peaks and slopes contain numerous ancient places of worship and caves with petroglyphs as well as two largely reconstructed 16th century mosques. One hundred and one sites with petroglyphs representing humans and animals as well as geometrical forms have been indexed in the property so far. The site numbers 17 places of worship, which are still in use, and many that are not. Dispersed around the mountain peaks they are connected by footpaths. The cult sites are believed to provide cures for barrenness, headaches, and back pain and give the blessing of longevity. Veneration for the mountain blends pre-Islamic and Islamic beliefs. The site is believed to represent the most complete example of a sacred mountain anywhere in Central Asia, worshipped over several millennia.

Location on Map

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Introduction

The Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, located in Kyrgyzstan at coordinates N40 31 52 E72 46 58, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This majestic mountain holds great cultural and religious significance for the people of Kyrgyzstan and is a popular pilgrimage site. With a rich history dating back thousands of years, Sulaiman-Too is a testament to the region's ancient civilizations and their spiritual beliefs.

History

The history of Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain is deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of Kyrgyzstan. The mountain has been a place of worship and pilgrimage for various civilizations throughout history. It is believed to have been a sacred site since the 10th century BCE, with evidence of human activity found in the form of petroglyphs and ancient inscriptions.

Over the centuries, Sulaiman-Too became a center for religious and cultural activities. It served as a place for spiritual retreat, meditation, and religious ceremonies. The mountain was associated with the cult of the sky deity Tengri, as well as Islamic and pre-Islamic beliefs. It was considered a sacred place where people sought blessings, healing, and guidance.

Current State

Today, Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain continues to be a significant cultural and religious site. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2009, recognizing its outstanding universal value. The mountain is a symbol of national identity and an important pilgrimage destination for both locals and tourists.

The site is well-preserved and maintained, allowing visitors to explore its historical and spiritual significance. The mountain features numerous caves, shrines, and sacred sites, each with its own unique story and cultural importance. The petroglyphs and inscriptions found on the mountain provide valuable insights into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region.

Visitors to Sulaiman-Too can embark on a journey through history, immersing themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of the site. The mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, providing a serene and tranquil environment for reflection and contemplation.

Efforts have been made to promote sustainable tourism and protect the integrity of the site. Local authorities and UNESCO work together to ensure the preservation of Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain for future generations. This includes implementing visitor guidelines, conservation measures, and educational programs to raise awareness about the site's significance.

Conclusion

The Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain in Kyrgyzstan is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site that holds immense cultural and religious importance. With a history spanning thousands of years, it serves as a testament to the region's ancient civilizations and their spiritual beliefs. Today, the mountain continues to attract visitors from around the world, offering a unique opportunity to explore its rich heritage and experience the spiritual aura that surrounds it.

Hotels and places to stay

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ORTO-ASIA

Address
Distance: 3,0 mi
Razzakova 23
714000 Osh
Kyrgyzstan

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

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Classic Классик

Address
Distance: 1,3 mi
Alieva 143
714000 Osh
Kyrgyzstan

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 13:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

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Guest house B&B

Address
Distance: 0,9 mi
Alyeva 190/1a
714000 Osh
Kyrgyzstan

Time Information

Checkout: 10:00 - Checkin: 10:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

Record of a shoe-repair shop in Osh/Kyrgyzstan

Published: March 10, 2015
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Soulhunter17

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Published: February 05, 2014
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Rating: 5 of 5
Author: aptekafiveplus

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Tours-TV.com: Sulayman Mountain

Published: November 30, 2014
Length: 26:56 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: ToursTV Com

At Sulayman Mountain tourists can see the ancient mosques, mausoleums, medieval bath, and two unique caves . Kyrgyzstan : Osh. See on map http://tours-tv.com/en/sulayman-mountain .