Detail of the Tilework Inside the Shrine of Khwaja Abdullah Ansari, Herat, Herat Province, Afghanistan

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The Khwaja 'Abd Allah Ansari shrine of Herat, also known as Gazar Gah, is a funerary compound (hazira) which houses the tomb of the Sufi mystic and saint Khwajah Abdullah Ansari, also known as the guardian pir (wise man) of Herat. After his death in 1098, his tomb became a major Sunni pilgrimage center. Rebuilding of the shrine was commissioned by the Timurid ruler Shah Rukh in 1425-27. The shrine was built in a typical Timurid style. There have been several renovations, but during the Soviet invasion it was partly destroyed. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture has supported repairs in recent years, under its Historic Cities Programme.

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Size: 3550px × 5325px
Location: Herat, Herat Province, Afghanistan
Photo credit: © François-Olivier Dommergues / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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