Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum, Bukhara
Chashma Ayub Mausoleum in Bukhara got its name from the Persian language, and in translation means "the source of Ayub." Ayub is an Oriental pronunciation of the name of the biblical Job.
There is a mausoleum above the well with the holy spring. The complex attracts not only religious people or those simply looking for a miracle. The site is also of interest to those who love the science and history of Central Asia. The Museum of Water, also located on the territory of the complex, will introduce you to the original water supply system of Bukhara and the most ancient ways of keeping it clean and fresh and also will reveal some peculiarities of its transportation. The fact that the exhibit is dedicated to water may seem surprising but when being in the arid climate of Bukhara and seeing with your eyes the steppes surrounding the town, you will understand the high value each drop of water has in this region - it is the true value of antiquity due to limited natural resources. The exhibits on display are also diverse - there are 18th-century water pipes, copper reservoirs, and buckets made of leather.
The mausoleum was built in the 12th century, signifying the legacy of the Karakhanid dynasty. During its 500 years of existence, it has undergone considerable reconstruction since the 14th century. A plate of carved terracotta found at the well near the holy spring revealed that Khorezmian craftspeople sent by Amir Temur had contributed greatly to its transformation.
The mausoleum includes four halls with domes located on the east-west axis, among which the "gur-khona," a square-shaped tomb with two small extensions, similar to the tomb of Bayan-Quli Khan of Chingizid dynasty, is found. It is remarkable that, unlike the other three halls, it is decorated with two upper domes. The westernmost structure is the most ancient of them and, in ancient times, it served as a funeral tower. It was the central structure amid the multilayered burial mounds, and their subsequent removal allowed to examine the original shapes and proportions of the structure, which resembled an elongated prism. Because of its architectural features, it is often compared to the Samanid tomb. At the same time, many of its visitors note a darker and more ascetic mood created by the atmosphere of the building. It is believed that the reason for this was the multiple additions made in different times, transforming the harmony of the original space.
There is a famous legend about the origin of the spring connected with the prophet Ayub, the biblical martyr Job. When wandering Ayub was in the land of Sogdiana, the locals who knew of the purity of this man came to him and begged him to save them and their children who were suffering from thirst and drought. Ayub prayed to Allah, and his plea was graciously granted. It was said, "In the place where your staff strikes, a well of pure water will appear." And so it happened, and amid the desiccated soil a spring of crystal waters gushed forth, and it was said to have healing properties.
Once in Samanid Park, you will see from afar one of the most attractive places in the town, which is prominent by the non-typical shape of the facade and the unique atmosphere inside the facility. Stepping inside from the noisy alleys of the park, you will find yourself in the darkened arches of the mausoleum, which offers salutary refreshment on hot days, and where you can quench your thirst by drinking the miraculous water from the well and ask the Saint for healing and support.