The Shahi-Zinda is a memorial ensemble in Samarkand and is the most venerated pilgrimage site in Central Asia. It is translated into English as «the living king». This title derives from legends whereby the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, Kusam ibn Abbas, was in Central Asia in late 7th century and spread Islam. By the legend, here he encountered persecution and attack and thus he hid in a well, then he ascended to heaven alive. Ever since, this place has been considered sacred, and every ruler used to regard it as his duty to construct a public building or a mausoleum.

This site can by right be dubbed as the encyclopedia of architecture and architectural decor of the Muslim East for it boasts architectural masterpieces from the 11th to the early 20th centuries in well-preserved shape.

The ensemble comprises lower, middle and upper hallways. The upper hallway contains the funeral-memorial complex of Kusam ibn Abbas. (Source: Uzbekistan travel news newspaper)