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Topkapi Palace, situated in Istanbul, Turkey, stands as a monumental testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire at its zenith. Constructed in the 15th century under the order of Sultan Mehmed II, following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the palace served as the administrative center and royal residence of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly four centuries, until the mid-19th century when the court was moved to Dolmabahçe Palace.
Covering approximately 700,000 square meters at the tip of the historic peninsula overlooking both the Bosphorus Strait and the Golden Horn, the palace complex is a stunning showcase of Islamic art, with its elaborate courtyards, exquisite tile work, and intricate architecture. The layout of the palace is a series of courtyards, each serving different purposes and increasing in privacy: the First Courtyard served as a service area; the Second Courtyard was the administrative heart of the empire; the Third Courtyard housed the Sultan’s private residence and the treasury, including the Imperial Council (Divan); and the Fourth Courtyard was a series of gardens and pavilions used for private relaxation.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Topkapi Palace is its Imperial Harem, a secluded section that housed the Sultan’s wives, concubines, and children, along with a large staff of eunuchs who managed the day-to-day affairs. The Harem is particularly noted for its architectural significance and intricate interior decorations.
The palace also holds an extensive collection of artifacts that reflect the splendor of the Ottoman era, including imperial treasures, religious relics, and a significant collection of manuscripts and decorative arts. Among its most prized possessions are the Prophet Muhammad’s cloak and sword, which draw pilgrims and visitors from around the Islamic world.
Today, Topkapi Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and operates as a museum, attracting millions of visitors each year eager to explore its rich history and cultural heritage. Its strategic location offers panoramic views of Istanbul and the waters that define it, making it not only a historical treasure but also a symbol of the city’s enduring legacy as a bridge between continents and cultures.
Form, light, shade and aesthetic purity coalesce in the historic tenth century royal palace in Seville. Formerly the site of the Islamic era citadel of the city, the citadel was developed into a larger palace complex by the Abbadid dynasty and Almohads through the eleventh, twelfth and thirteenth centuries. A difficult image to capture.
A Sword “Unmatched by Precedent” (Unlikely to Be Found):
Let us quote exactly what Tahsin Öz, the former museum director, wrote about the sword and its epitaph on pages 38 and 39 of this book:
“At the time this sword was opened for inventory, the sword had a thicker layer of rust than other swords. When it was cleaned, human images and writings were found on it, and it appeared that these were real.
The hilt of the sword is covered with black leather on wood and the cross guard is made of iron. Its length is 101 inches. The base is wide and the two edges are sharp and the tip is pointed. There is a picture of a person near the hilt of the base, holding a sword in one hand and a head in the other. There is an Arabic line under it, which is well deserved, and among the writings there is another type of writing (perhaps Nabati) whose type we cannot determine. In the last line, the names of David, Solomon, Musa, Harun, Joshua, Zekeriyya, Yahya, Isa, Muhammad can be read.
The iron of this sword is made of white metal, and it is extremely sharp and has a characteristic that cannot be matched. However, it was impossible to determine its nature from the partially readable writings on it. After a while, while the works in the palace’s warehouse called the Emanrt Treasure were being classified, a copper inscription caught our attention. Because it had the same pictures on the sword. One side of this inscription was in Arabic with 32 lines and 28 lines on the other side were in the aforementioned font. The picture here was more obvious than the sword.
Head of the Inscription of the Sword
After giving this technical information about the sword and its inscription, Tahsin Öz goes to the summary of the inscription. This is where the real oddities come together.
On one side of this strange inscription, there is a figure holding a sword in one hand and a severed head in the other hand, similar to the sword (as seen in the picture); However, there are major differences between them that seem small. It is as follows: The picture of the man with the sword -it is understood that this picture represents Prophet David – has a funnel-shaped cone on his head, while the figure in the inscription has two horns on his head. When this situation is evaluated together with the feet of the figure, it is clearly understood that this picture represents a genie. Because the two figures that look like the feet of the demon (that is, for show) are not actually feet, but the letter ط (Tı) in Arabic. When the letters ط (Tı) are excluded from the picture, the genie’s legs are bent backwards. The picture looks like a talisman when evaluated together with the vefks below. Perhaps the sword was made as a protective talisman.
Pictorial Part of the Sword
The figure holding a sword in one hand and a severed head in the other (the cut head is slightly faint) and depicting the event of Prophet David killing Goliath is depicted on the sword.
On the face of the copper inscription with a genie picture, a text that cannot be understood in which language and alphabet draws attention. Anyone familiar with occult sciences can understand that these writings, which Tahsin Bey, the former director of the museum, said “may be Nabataean”, are talismanic writings about demons. Historians are well aware of the genie issue. Therefore, Tahsin Bey may have guessed that these writings were jinn, but he did not want to express it from his book, which he wrote in an academic and official style, because this is a metaphysical issue..(?)
Jinn can be written in many different secret alphabets; We can see the common vefk characters here both on the sword and in the inscription.
The story of Talut and Goliath described in Surah Baccarat and the depictions on the sword and inscription in the Topkapı Palace Museum draw attention to the same event. And in the inscription of the sword, it is written that the sword will be delivered to the Mahdi. The relevant sections in the book are as follows.
“Ali says; I found this sword and plate in the treasury of Melik Mukavkis, the owner of Egypt. He had a narration from Prophet David in Syriac and Hebrew. He says; When Goliath became hostile to me, I made a sword and an arrow as my Lord had taught me. And after the galabeh, God made me victorious. One of the signs of this sword is that; On one side, there is a person with a sword and a head in his hand, and on the other side, a person sitting on the pulpit of the country. That severed head expresses my killing of Goliath, and the one sitting on the pulpit expresses his judgment on Solomon and everything. This blessed sword will reach Prophet Yusuf… After that, Hazrat. It reaches Zechariah, then Yahya, and then Jesus. Then it is presented to the Prophet Muhammad. After his death, he reaches Hazrat Abu Bakr. Then he inherited his son Muhammad. Ali bin Abu Talib appoints Muhammad as governor of Egypt. Then he dies. And the sword returns to the treasure of Prophet Yusuf. Then it remains hidden until the 880th year of the Hijra. Elif will be transferred to Egypt. After the Ottomans state is complete, they will fight until the time of Kuffar Mahdi. God bless them. Then the sword will pass to the Mahdi, the owner of the time, and it will reach the Prophet Jesus. With him, the one-eyed hypocrite ibn-i siyat will murder the Dajjal. Allah and His Messenger reported them as secret sciences.”
The strangeness in the copper inscription continues.
There is an Arabic text on the back of the inscription (Image above) and what is described in this text contains information that seems contradictory at first glance. The mystery of the text, which includes some of the prophecies that have come true, is knotted in a picture of a ship encrypted with the science of cifir. But before that, the point that draws our attention is that; There is something strange about saying that Prophet David’s sword will reach Prophet Yusuf. Because Prophet Yusuf lived and died centuries before Prophet David. How is it that the sword reaches other prophets after Prophet Yusuf and returns to Yusuf’s treasury this time. It’s like talking about a time spiral. The strangeness of the chronology given in this inscription, which was preserved and preserved by the Ottomans for centuries, must have been noticed by the Ottomans immediately, because the tradition of religious sciences was always very widespread and developed in the Ottoman Empire. Therefore, it is almost impossible that they did not notice this strangeness. Moreover, the inscription mentions the “Completion of the Ottoman Empire”, that is, the collapse of the state. At that time, even if anyone said such a thing, it would probably result in my extradition. So why did the Ottoman state preserve and protect these pieces for centuries? That is a separate question that remains a mystery.
A little tribute from me to The Martyrs of Karbala on the night of 10 Moharram 1436 Hijri i.e. 04 November 2014.
We must not forget the message of worshiping only One God i.e. none but Allah. The message that Imam Husain (3rd among 12) provoked in the hearts and thoughts of the human being by sacrificing not only his own but his companions' and his family's lives as well. Not only this, but his holy family was also disgraced by Yazid and his army.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karimabad_(Hunza)
Karimabad (Urdu: كريم آباد) is the capital of Hunza in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Karimabad is also known as Baltit. It is named after Prince Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual head of Shia Ismaili Nizari community. It is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan and it swarms with tourists from all around the world during summers. It provides spectacular views of many beautiful mountains like Rakaposhi. The Guardian ranked it as the 4th Best Tourist Site in Pakistan.[1]
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunza_Valley
Spectacular scenery
)Hunza is one of the most impressive places in the world. Several high peaks rise above 6,000 metres (20,000 ft) in the surroundings of Hunza valley. The valley provides spectacular views of some of the most beautiful and magnificent mountains of the world which include Rakaposhi 7,788 metres (25,551 ft), Ultar Sar 7,388 metres (24,239 ft), Bojahagur Duanasir II 7,329 metres (24,045 ft), Ghenta Sar 7,090 metres (23,261 ft), Hunza Peak 6,270 metres (20,571 ft), Darmyani Peak 6,090 metres (19,980 ft), and Bublimating (Ladyfinger Peak) 6,000 metres (19,685 ft). Hunza Valley is also host to the ancient watch towers in Ganish , Baltit Fort and Altit Fort. Watch towers are located in heart of Ganish Village, Baltit Fort stands on top of Karimabad whereas Altit Fort lies at the bottom of the valley.
The valley is popularly believed to be the inspiration for the mythical valley of Shangri-la in James Hilton's 1933 novel Lost Horizon. As one travels up on the Karakoram Highway, the beautiful sceneries keep on revealing themselves. On the way one can witness the 65 kilometres (40 mi) long 'Batura' glacier, the second longest in Pakistan, surround by Shishper, Batura and Kumpirdior peaks. On reaching Sost one can continue the journey up to Khunzhrav or turn west to witness the mystic beauty of Chipursan (also Chapursan) valley. Chipursan valley has some of most exotic tourist spots in the area. In Yarzerech (also Yarzirich) you can have a look at the majestic Kundahill peak (6,000 metres (19,685 ft)), or trek along the Rishepzhurav to the Kundahill to experience the soothing sceneries. Beyond Yarzerech one can travel further to Lupghar, Raminj, Reshit, Yishkuk up to Bobo Ghundi (Oston), the shrine of Baba-e-Ghund, a saint from Afghanistan near the border between Pakistan and Wakhan region of Afghanistan.
This image was taken just steps from one of Uzbekistan's most revered religious sites: the Hazrati Imam Complex. The turquoise dome is part of one of its historic buildings and a centuries-old ensemble of mosques, madrasas, and mausoleums.
The complex is also home to the Uthman Quran, believed to be the world's oldest surviving manuscript of the Koran, dating back to the 7th century. Built on the burial site of Hazrati Imam (also known as Kaffal Shashi), a respected Islamic scholar and poet, the complex has long been a center of religious life in Tashkent. It continues to serve as a place of worship and a symbol of Uzbekistan's Islamic heritage.
Framing the dome between modern and traditional structures, I focused on geometric shapes and soft light to offer a quieter, more abstract view of a place steeped in spiritual history.
Quite contrary to the propaganda spread outside of China, the Chinese people have a pretty continuous thousands of years of tolerance toward real religions, even those coming from abroad. This I experienced first hand living and exploring there as a Muslim throughout most of the 2010s. Such that it wasn't only Buddhism which penetrated deep into the Middle Kingdom from India, but also Islam was protected and allowed to spread ever since the Song dynasty.
I was profoundly surprised and touched to find these ancient tombs of purported companions of Mohammad the Prophet, Zafar Sadiq and Imam Hashim, in a beautifully kept hillside park in Quanzhou, well into the South East coast of China and a former epicenter of the Maritime Silk Road, and to observe the cultural and religious syncretism walking among those green shrouds with Islamic calligraphy with incense lit under a formidable Chinese styled mausoleum.
Check out my albums:
---------------------------------
• Top 2%, with my best photos ever
• All my photos in Explore
• My best selling photos
• All my photos used on book covers
• My own wonders of the world
Visit me also in Facebook and Instagram
©2020 German Vogel - All rights reserved - No usage allowed in any form without the written consent of the photographer.
Th town of Baltit was the traditional capital of Hunza and the home of the Mirs of Hunza, the royal family. It consisted of the fort and some houses around it. Baltit fort was built some 600-800 years ago and then in 1900 the balcony and interior comforts were added. The fort was in near collapse when it was vacated in the 1940's by the royal family who used to live there. A joint British and Pakistani team have managed to restore it. The royal family moved to better quarters in Karimabad, a sort of modern extension of Baltit which was named after Prince Karim.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karimabad_(Hunza)
Karimabad (Urdu: كريم آباد) is the capital of Hunza in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Karimabad is also known as Baltit. It is named after Prince Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual head of Shia Ismaili Nizari community. It is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan and it swarms with tourists from all around the world during summers. It provides spectacular views of many beautiful mountains like Rakaposhi. The Guardian ranked it as the 4th Best Tourist Site in Pakistan.[1]
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunza_Valley
Spectacular scenery
)Hunza is one of the most impressive places in the world. Several high peaks rise above 6,000 metres (20,000 ft) in the surroundings of Hunza valley. The valley provides spectacular views of some of the most beautiful and magnificent mountains of the world which include Rakaposhi 7,788 metres (25,551 ft), Ultar Sar 7,388 metres (24,239 ft), Bojahagur Duanasir II 7,329 metres (24,045 ft), Ghenta Sar 7,090 metres (23,261 ft), Hunza Peak 6,270 metres (20,571 ft), Darmyani Peak 6,090 metres (19,980 ft), and Bublimating (Ladyfinger Peak) 6,000 metres (19,685 ft). Hunza Valley is also host to the ancient watch towers in Ganish , Baltit Fort and Altit Fort. Watch towers are located in heart of Ganish Village, Baltit Fort stands on top of Karimabad whereas Altit Fort lies at the bottom of the valley.
The valley is popularly believed to be the inspiration for the mythical valley of Shangri-la in James Hilton's 1933 novel Lost Horizon. As one travels up on the Karakoram Highway, the beautiful sceneries keep on revealing themselves. On the way one can witness the 65 kilometres (40 mi) long 'Batura' glacier, the second longest in Pakistan, surround by Shishper, Batura and Kumpirdior peaks. On reaching Sost one can continue the journey up to Khunzhrav or turn west to witness the mystic beauty of Chipursan (also Chapursan) valley. Chipursan valley has some of most exotic tourist spots in the area. In Yarzerech (also Yarzirich) you can have a look at the majestic Kundahill peak (6,000 metres (19,685 ft)), or trek along the Rishepzhurav to the Kundahill to experience the soothing sceneries. Beyond Yarzerech one can travel further to Lupghar, Raminj, Reshit, Yishkuk up to Bobo Ghundi (Oston), the shrine of Baba-e-Ghund, a saint from Afghanistan near the border between Pakistan and Wakhan region of Afghanistan.
Under construction since 2018, this impressive new landmark rises next to the historic Hazrati Imam Complex—the religious heart of Tashkent and one of Uzbekistan's most important Islamic sites. The Hazrati Imam Complex houses ancient mosques, madrasas, and the famous Uthman Quran, considered one of the world's oldest copies of the holy book.
Once completed, the new center will serve as a mosque and a cultural and educational hub for the region. The main building, which is 145 meters long, is topped by a striking 64-meter-high dome that already defines the modern skyline of the capital.
Inside, the complex will include a museum with five themed halls covering everything from pre-Islamic heritage to the Timurid Renaissance, as well as a library that will house more than 100,000 manuscripts and digital archives.
Unlike many parts of Western Europe, churches are often deconsecrated or repurposed as secular spaces. Uzbekistan has seen a religious revival since gaining independence in 1991. After decades of Soviet-era restrictions, people here have once again embraced religious practice, particularly Islam, which is deeply woven into the country's identity and history.
Th town of Baltit was the traditional capital of Hunza and the home of the Mirs of Hunza, the royal family. It consisted of the fort and some houses around it. Baltit fort was built some 600-800 years ago and then in 1900 the balcony and interior comforts were added. The fort was in near collapse when it was vacated in the 1940's by the royal family who used to live there. A joint British and Pakistani team have managed to restore it. The royal family moved to better quarters in Karimabad, a sort of modern extension of Baltit which was named after Prince Karim.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltit_Fort
Baltit Fort or Balti Fort is an ancient fort in the Hunza valley in the Northern Areas of Pakistan.
In former times survival of the feudal regimes of Hunza was ensured by the impressive Baltit fort, that sit on top of Karimabad. The foundations of the fort are said to date back around 700 years, but there have been rebuilds and alterations over the centuries. In the 16th century the Thum married a princess from Baltistan who brought master Balti craftsmen to renovate the building as part of her dowry. The architectural style is a clear indication of Tibetan influence in Baltistan at the time.
The Mirs of Hunza abandoned the fort in 1945, and moved to a new palace down the hill. The fort started to decay and there was concern that it might possibly fall into ruin. Following a survey by the Royal Geographical Society of London, a restoration programme was initiated and supported by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture Historic Cities Support Programme. The programme was completed in 1996 and the fort is now a museum run by the Baltit Heritage Trust.
Historical background
Baltit Fort, the former residence of the Mirs of Hunza
In olden times a number of small independent states existed in the history of Northern Areas of Pakistan. Among them Hunza and Nager were the traditional rival states, situated on opposite sides of the Hunza (kanjut) river. The rulers of these two states, known as Thámo / Mirs (Thάm=S), built various strongholds to express their power. According to historical sources (Ref: Tarikh-e-Ehd Atiiq Riyasat Hunza by Haji Qudrarullah Baig, Pub: S.T.Printers Rawalpindi 1980 Pakistan), the Hunza rulers initially resided in the Altit Fort, but later as a result of a conflict between the two sons of the ruler Sultan, Shah Abbas (Shάboos) and Ali Khan (Aliqhάn), Shaboos shifted to the Baltit Fort, making it the capital seat of Hunza. The power struggle between the two brothers eventually resulted in the death of younger one, and so Baltit Fort further established itself as the prime seat of power in the Hunza state.
The rich beauty of Baltit Fort can be traced to over seven hundred 700 years ago. Ayasho II, Tham / Mir of Hunza in the early 15th fifteenth century married Princess Shah Khatoon (Sha Qhatun) from Baltistan (In Moghul history Baltistan is called Tibet Khurd mean, little Tibet), and was the first to modify the face of Altit and, subsequently Baltit Fort. Baltistan meaning land of Balti people had a very strong cultural and ethnical relation with the Ladakh territory of India then. Consequently, the structure of Baltit Fort was influenced by the Ladakhi / Tibetan architecture, with some resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Then additions, renovations and changes to the building were being made through the centuries by the long line of rulers of the Hunza that followed.
A veritable treasure house for ancient forts, the Northern Areas of Pakistan lost most of its glorious built heritage around the 19th century as a result of the destructive attacks by the Maharaja of Kashmir. However, in this regard people of Hunza were exceptionally fortunate to successfully defend against the invasions of Maharaja Kashmir four times. One of the biggest changes in the structure of Baltit Fort came with the invasion of the British in December 1891. Tham / Mir Safdarali Khan, ruler of Hunza his wazir Dadu (Thara Baig III), fled to Kashgar (China) for political asylum with their fellows and families. With the conquest of Hunza and Nager states by the British forces in December 1891, the fortified wall and watch towers of the old Baltit village and watch towers of the Baltit Fort on its north-western end were also demolished as desired by the British authorities. The British installed his younger brother Tham / Mir Sir Muhammad Nazim Khan K.C.I.E, as the ruler of Hunza state in September 1892 [1].
During his reign, Tham / Mir Nazeem Khan made several major alterations to the Baltit Fort. He demolished a number of rooms of third floor and added a few rooms in the British colonial style on the front elevation, using lime wash and colour glass panel windows. The Baltit Fort remained officially inhabited until 1945, when the last ruler of Hunza, Mir Muhammad Jmamal Khan, moved to a new palace further down the hill, where the present Mir of Hunza Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan (Current Chief Executive of Northern Areas) and his family are residing.
With no proper authority entrusted to care for it, the Fort was exposed to the ravages of time and over the years its structure weakened and began to deteriorate. His Highness Aga Khan IV initiated the restoration efforts for Baltit Fort in 1990, when Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan the son of last ruler of Hunza, Tham / Mir Muhammad Jamal Khan and his family generously donated the Fort to the Baltit Heritage Trust, a public charity formed for the explicit purpose of owning and maintaining the Fort. The restoration undertaken by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in Geneva in association with the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (Pakistan), took six years to complete. The project was supported by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture as the main donor through its Historic Cities Support Programme, as well as by the Getty Grant Program (USA), NORAD (Norway) and the French Government.
The restored Fort, resplendent in its regal glory was inaugurated on September 29, 1996 in the presence of His Highness the Aga Khan IV and the president of Pakistan Farooq Ahmad Khan Laghari. It is now operated and maintained by the Baltit Heritage Trust and is open to visitors. Preservation at its best, the Baltit Fort serves as a perfect example of culture restored and preserved for the future generations of the mountain people.
Awards and recognition
2005 Time Magazine Asia, Best of Asia Award[2]
2004 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards for Cultural Conservation - Award of Excellence (see profile)[3]
2000 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards: Global Winner[4][5]
Bibliography
Baig Qudratullah, Tarikh-e-Edh Atiiq Riyāsat Hunza Pub: S.T.rinters Rawalpindi-Pakistan 1980
Dani A.H, History of Northern Areas of Pakistan Pub: Sang-e-Meel Publications, Lahore Pakistan www.sang-e-meel.com, Reprinted: 2007).
Biddulph John, Tribes of Hindoo Koosh Pub: The Superintendent of Government Printing-Calcutta India 1880, Reprint: Ali Kamran Publishers, Lahore-Pakistan 1995.
Credit: The "Historical Background" chapter was contributed by Hunza – Baltit Fort curator E.U.Baig (kanjudi@gmail.com)
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karimabad_(Hunza)
Karimabad (Urdu: كريم آباد) is the capital of Hunza in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Karimabad is also known as Baltit. It is named after Prince Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual head of Shia Ismaili Nizari community. It is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan and it swarms with tourists from all around the world during summers. It provides spectacular views of many beautiful mountains like Rakaposhi. The Guardian ranked it as the 4th Best Tourist Site in Pakistan.[1]
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunza_Valley
Spectacular scenery
)Hunza is one of the most impressive places in the world. Several high peaks rise above 6,000 metres (20,000 ft) in the surroundings of Hunza valley. The valley provides spectacular views of some of the most beautiful and magnificent mountains of the world which include Rakaposhi 7,788 metres (25,551 ft), Ultar Sar 7,388 metres (24,239 ft), Bojahagur Duanasir II 7,329 metres (24,045 ft), Ghenta Sar 7,090 metres (23,261 ft), Hunza Peak 6,270 metres (20,571 ft), Darmyani Peak 6,090 metres (19,980 ft), and Bublimating (Ladyfinger Peak) 6,000 metres (19,685 ft). Hunza Valley is also host to the ancient watch towers in Ganish , Baltit Fort and Altit Fort. Watch towers are located in heart of Ganish Village, Baltit Fort stands on top of Karimabad whereas Altit Fort lies at the bottom of the valley.
The valley is popularly believed to be the inspiration for the mythical valley of Shangri-la in James Hilton's 1933 novel Lost Horizon. As one travels up on the Karakoram Highway, the beautiful sceneries keep on revealing themselves. On the way one can witness the 65 kilometres (40 mi) long 'Batura' glacier, the second longest in Pakistan, surround by Shishper, Batura and Kumpirdior peaks. On reaching Sost one can continue the journey up to Khunzhrav or turn west to witness the mystic beauty of Chipursan (also Chapursan) valley. Chipursan valley has some of most exotic tourist spots in the area. In Yarzerech (also Yarzirich) you can have a look at the majestic Kundahill peak (6,000 metres (19,685 ft)), or trek along the Rishepzhurav to the Kundahill to experience the soothing sceneries. Beyond Yarzerech one can travel further to Lupghar, Raminj, Reshit, Yishkuk up to Bobo Ghundi (Oston), the shrine of Baba-e-Ghund, a saint from Afghanistan near the border between Pakistan and Wakhan region of Afghanistan.
This former madrasa, once a center of Islamic education, now serves a different purpose. Its historic cells have been repurposed into small shops selling traditional crafts, ceramics, and textiles — part of a broader trend across Uzbekistan where heritage sites are preserved but adapted for cultural tourism.
While souvenir shops can add charm and accessibility to historical sites, they quickly become repetitive when every shop offers the same products. What starts as authentic can easily feel over-commercialized. As Uzbekistan welcomes more visitors, it still needs to find the right balance between showcasing its rich heritage and preserving each site's uniqueness.
In the background, the blue-striped Center of Islamic Civilization dome is still under construction. I chose this composition carefully — one of the few places where I could frame the new dome cleanly, without cranes or construction fences.
The richly tiled dome in the foreground belongs to the older structure. Together, they create a visual contrast between preserved tradition and a modern effort to shape the future of Islamic scholarship in the region.
The engraved stone reads: "A stele erected by the Fujian People's Government in 1961 declaring the Longshan Holy Tomb to be a key relic in the safe-keeping of the provincial authorities."
Quite contrary to the propaganda spread outside of China, the Chinese people have a pretty continuous thousands of years of tolerance toward real religions, even those coming from abroad. This I experienced first hand living and exploring there as a Muslim throughout most of the 2010s. Such that it wasn't only Buddhism which penetrated deep into the Middle Kingdom from India, but also Islam was protected and allowed to spread ever since the Song dynasty.
I was profoundly surprised and touched to find these ancient tombs of purported companions of Mohammad the Prophet, Zafar Sadiq and Imam Hashim, in a beautifully kept hillside park in Quanzhou, well into the South East coast of China and a former epicenter of the Maritime Silk Road, and to observe the cultural and religious syncretism walking among those green shrouds with Islamic calligraphy with incense lit under a formidable Chinese styled mausoleum.
Check out my albums:
---------------------------------
• Top 2%, with my best photos ever
• All my photos in Explore
• My best selling photos
• All my photos used on book covers
• My own wonders of the world
Visit me also in Facebook and Instagram
©2020 German Vogel - All rights reserved - No usage allowed in any form without the written consent of the photographer.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltit_Fort
Baltit Fort or Balti Fort is an ancient fort in the Hunza valley in the Northern Areas of Pakistan.
In former times survival of the feudal regimes of Hunza was ensured by the impressive Baltit fort, that sit on top of Karimabad. The foundations of the fort are said to date back around 700 years, but there have been rebuilds and alterations over the centuries. In the 16th century the Thum married a princess from Baltistan who brought master Balti craftsmen to renovate the building as part of her dowry. The architectural style is a clear indication of Tibetan influence in Baltistan at the time.
The Mirs of Hunza abandoned the fort in 1945, and moved to a new palace down the hill. The fort started to decay and there was concern that it might possibly fall into ruin. Following a survey by the Royal Geographical Society of London, a restoration programme was initiated and supported by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture Historic Cities Support Programme. The programme was completed in 1996 and the fort is now a museum run by the Baltit Heritage Trust.
Historical background
Baltit Fort, the former residence of the Mirs of Hunza
In olden times a number of small independent states existed in the history of Northern Areas of Pakistan. Among them Hunza and Nager were the traditional rival states, situated on opposite sides of the Hunza (kanjut) river. The rulers of these two states, known as Thámo / Mirs (Thάm=S), built various strongholds to express their power. According to historical sources (Ref: Tarikh-e-Ehd Atiiq Riyasat Hunza by Haji Qudrarullah Baig, Pub: S.T.Printers Rawalpindi 1980 Pakistan), the Hunza rulers initially resided in the Altit Fort, but later as a result of a conflict between the two sons of the ruler Sultan, Shah Abbas (Shάboos) and Ali Khan (Aliqhάn), Shaboos shifted to the Baltit Fort, making it the capital seat of Hunza. The power struggle between the two brothers eventually resulted in the death of younger one, and so Baltit Fort further established itself as the prime seat of power in the Hunza state.
The rich beauty of Baltit Fort can be traced to over seven hundred 700 years ago. Ayasho II, Tham / Mir of Hunza in the early 15th fifteenth century married Princess Shah Khatoon (Sha Qhatun) from Baltistan (In Moghul history Baltistan is called Tibet Khurd mean, little Tibet), and was the first to modify the face of Altit and, subsequently Baltit Fort. Baltistan meaning land of Balti people had a very strong cultural and ethnical relation with the Ladakh territory of India then. Consequently, the structure of Baltit Fort was influenced by the Ladakhi / Tibetan architecture, with some resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Then additions, renovations and changes to the building were being made through the centuries by the long line of rulers of the Hunza that followed.
A veritable treasure house for ancient forts, the Northern Areas of Pakistan lost most of its glorious built heritage around the 19th century as a result of the destructive attacks by the Maharaja of Kashmir. However, in this regard people of Hunza were exceptionally fortunate to successfully defend against the invasions of Maharaja Kashmir four times. One of the biggest changes in the structure of Baltit Fort came with the invasion of the British in December 1891. Tham / Mir Safdarali Khan, ruler of Hunza his wazir Dadu (Thara Baig III), fled to Kashgar (China) for political asylum with their fellows and families. With the conquest of Hunza and Nager states by the British forces in December 1891, the fortified wall and watch towers of the old Baltit village and watch towers of the Baltit Fort on its north-western end were also demolished as desired by the British authorities. The British installed his younger brother Tham / Mir Sir Muhammad Nazim Khan K.C.I.E, as the ruler of Hunza state in September 1892 [1].
During his reign, Tham / Mir Nazeem Khan made several major alterations to the Baltit Fort. He demolished a number of rooms of third floor and added a few rooms in the British colonial style on the front elevation, using lime wash and colour glass panel windows. The Baltit Fort remained officially inhabited until 1945, when the last ruler of Hunza, Mir Muhammad Jmamal Khan, moved to a new palace further down the hill, where the present Mir of Hunza Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan (Current Chief Executive of Northern Areas) and his family are residing.
With no proper authority entrusted to care for it, the Fort was exposed to the ravages of time and over the years its structure weakened and began to deteriorate. His Highness Aga Khan IV initiated the restoration efforts for Baltit Fort in 1990, when Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan the son of last ruler of Hunza, Tham / Mir Muhammad Jamal Khan and his family generously donated the Fort to the Baltit Heritage Trust, a public charity formed for the explicit purpose of owning and maintaining the Fort. The restoration undertaken by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in Geneva in association with the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (Pakistan), took six years to complete. The project was supported by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture as the main donor through its Historic Cities Support Programme, as well as by the Getty Grant Program (USA), NORAD (Norway) and the French Government.
The restored Fort, resplendent in its regal glory was inaugurated on September 29, 1996 in the presence of His Highness the Aga Khan IV and the president of Pakistan Farooq Ahmad Khan Laghari. It is now operated and maintained by the Baltit Heritage Trust and is open to visitors. Preservation at its best, the Baltit Fort serves as a perfect example of culture restored and preserved for the future generations of the mountain people.
Awards and recognition
2005 Time Magazine Asia, Best of Asia Award[2]
2004 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards for Cultural Conservation - Award of Excellence (see profile)[3]
2000 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards: Global Winner[4][5]
Bibliography
Baig Qudratullah, Tarikh-e-Edh Atiiq Riyāsat Hunza Pub: S.T.rinters Rawalpindi-Pakistan 1980
Dani A.H, History of Northern Areas of Pakistan Pub: Sang-e-Meel Publications, Lahore Pakistan www.sang-e-meel.com, Reprinted: 2007).
Biddulph John, Tribes of Hindoo Koosh Pub: The Superintendent of Government Printing-Calcutta India 1880, Reprint: Ali Kamran Publishers, Lahore-Pakistan 1995.
Credit: The "Historical Background" chapter was contributed by Hunza – Baltit Fort curator E.U.Baig (kanjudi@gmail.com)
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltit_Fort
Baltit Fort or Balti Fort is an ancient fort in the Hunza valley in the Northern Areas of Pakistan.
In former times survival of the feudal regimes of Hunza was ensured by the impressive Baltit fort, that sit on top of Karimabad. The foundations of the fort are said to date back around 700 years, but there have been rebuilds and alterations over the centuries. In the 16th century the Thum married a princess from Baltistan who brought master Balti craftsmen to renovate the building as part of her dowry. The architectural style is a clear indication of Tibetan influence in Baltistan at the time.
The Mirs of Hunza abandoned the fort in 1945, and moved to a new palace down the hill. The fort started to decay and there was concern that it might possibly fall into ruin. Following a survey by the Royal Geographical Society of London, a restoration programme was initiated and supported by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture Historic Cities Support Programme. The programme was completed in 1996 and the fort is now a museum run by the Baltit Heritage Trust.
Historical background
Baltit Fort, the former residence of the Mirs of Hunza
In olden times a number of small independent states existed in the history of Northern Areas of Pakistan. Among them Hunza and Nager were the traditional rival states, situated on opposite sides of the Hunza (kanjut) river. The rulers of these two states, known as Thámo / Mirs (Thάm=S), built various strongholds to express their power. According to historical sources (Ref: Tarikh-e-Ehd Atiiq Riyasat Hunza by Haji Qudrarullah Baig, Pub: S.T.Printers Rawalpindi 1980 Pakistan), the Hunza rulers initially resided in the Altit Fort, but later as a result of a conflict between the two sons of the ruler Sultan, Shah Abbas (Shάboos) and Ali Khan (Aliqhάn), Shaboos shifted to the Baltit Fort, making it the capital seat of Hunza. The power struggle between the two brothers eventually resulted in the death of younger one, and so Baltit Fort further established itself as the prime seat of power in the Hunza state.
The rich beauty of Baltit Fort can be traced to over seven hundred 700 years ago. Ayasho II, Tham / Mir of Hunza in the early 15th fifteenth century married Princess Shah Khatoon (Sha Qhatun) from Baltistan (In Moghul history Baltistan is called Tibet Khurd mean, little Tibet), and was the first to modify the face of Altit and, subsequently Baltit Fort. Baltistan meaning land of Balti people had a very strong cultural and ethnical relation with the Ladakh territory of India then. Consequently, the structure of Baltit Fort was influenced by the Ladakhi / Tibetan architecture, with some resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Then additions, renovations and changes to the building were being made through the centuries by the long line of rulers of the Hunza that followed.
A veritable treasure house for ancient forts, the Northern Areas of Pakistan lost most of its glorious built heritage around the 19th century as a result of the destructive attacks by the Maharaja of Kashmir. However, in this regard people of Hunza were exceptionally fortunate to successfully defend against the invasions of Maharaja Kashmir four times. One of the biggest changes in the structure of Baltit Fort came with the invasion of the British in December 1891. Tham / Mir Safdarali Khan, ruler of Hunza his wazir Dadu (Thara Baig III), fled to Kashgar (China) for political asylum with their fellows and families. With the conquest of Hunza and Nager states by the British forces in December 1891, the fortified wall and watch towers of the old Baltit village and watch towers of the Baltit Fort on its north-western end were also demolished as desired by the British authorities. The British installed his younger brother Tham / Mir Sir Muhammad Nazim Khan K.C.I.E, as the ruler of Hunza state in September 1892 [1].
During his reign, Tham / Mir Nazeem Khan made several major alterations to the Baltit Fort. He demolished a number of rooms of third floor and added a few rooms in the British colonial style on the front elevation, using lime wash and colour glass panel windows. The Baltit Fort remained officially inhabited until 1945, when the last ruler of Hunza, Mir Muhammad Jmamal Khan, moved to a new palace further down the hill, where the present Mir of Hunza Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan (Current Chief Executive of Northern Areas) and his family are residing.
With no proper authority entrusted to care for it, the Fort was exposed to the ravages of time and over the years its structure weakened and began to deteriorate. His Highness Aga Khan IV initiated the restoration efforts for Baltit Fort in 1990, when Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan the son of last ruler of Hunza, Tham / Mir Muhammad Jamal Khan and his family generously donated the Fort to the Baltit Heritage Trust, a public charity formed for the explicit purpose of owning and maintaining the Fort. The restoration undertaken by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in Geneva in association with the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (Pakistan), took six years to complete. The project was supported by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture as the main donor through its Historic Cities Support Programme, as well as by the Getty Grant Program (USA), NORAD (Norway) and the French Government.
The restored Fort, resplendent in its regal glory was inaugurated on September 29, 1996 in the presence of His Highness the Aga Khan IV and the president of Pakistan Farooq Ahmad Khan Laghari. It is now operated and maintained by the Baltit Heritage Trust and is open to visitors. Preservation at its best, the Baltit Fort serves as a perfect example of culture restored and preserved for the future generations of the mountain people.
Awards and recognition
2005 Time Magazine Asia, Best of Asia Award[2]
2004 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards for Cultural Conservation - Award of Excellence (see profile)[3]
2000 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards: Global Winner[4][5]
Bibliography
Baig Qudratullah, Tarikh-e-Edh Atiiq Riyāsat Hunza Pub: S.T.rinters Rawalpindi-Pakistan 1980
Dani A.H, History of Northern Areas of Pakistan Pub: Sang-e-Meel Publications, Lahore Pakistan www.sang-e-meel.com, Reprinted: 2007).
Biddulph John, Tribes of Hindoo Koosh Pub: The Superintendent of Government Printing-Calcutta India 1880, Reprint: Ali Kamran Publishers, Lahore-Pakistan 1995.
Credit: The "Historical Background" chapter was contributed by Hunza – Baltit Fort curator E.U.Baig (kanjudi@gmail.com)
Aleppo Citadel , which dominates the whole skyline of Aleppo stand arrogantly overlooking the Old City of Aleppo. The construction is very massive and consists of mosque, hammam, living quarters, amphitheatre and administration offices . One of the public attractions when we visit to Aleppo. Entrance is SYP 150, which was reduced from SYP 300 when I visited about 5 years ago.
Location : Aleppo Citadel, Aleppo - Syria
Ayasofya (Yunanca: Αγιά Σοφιά Latince: Sancta Sophia ya da Sancta Sapientia),[2] Bizans İmparatoru I. Jüstinyen tarafından M.S. 532 - 537 yılları arasında İstanbul'un tarihi yarımadasındaki eski şehir merkezine inşa ettirilmiş bazilika planlı bir patrik katedrali olup, 1453 yılında İstanbul'un Türkler tarafından alınmasıyla Fatih Sultan Mehmet tarafından camiye dönüştürülmüştür ve günümüzde müze olarak hizmet vermektedir.[3][4] Ayasofya, mimari bakımdan, bazilika planı ile merkezî planı birleştiren, kubbeli bazilika tipinde bir yapı olup kubbe geçişi ve taşıyıcı sistem özellikleriyle mimarlık tarihinde önemli bir dönüm noktası olarak ele alınır.
Binanın adındaki “sofya” sözcüğü herhangi bir kimsenin adı olmayıp, eski Yunanca’da “bilgelik” anlamındaki sophos sözcüğünden gelir.[5] Dolayısıyla “aya sofya” adı “kutsal bilgelik” ya da "ilahî bilgelik” anlamına gelmekte olup, Ortodoksluk mezhepinde Tanrı'nın üç niteliğinden biri sayılır.[6] 6. yüzyılın ünlü mimarlarından Milet'li İsidoros ve Tralles'li Anthemius'un[1][3] yönettiği Ayasofya’nın inşaatinde yaklaşık 10.000 işçinin[7][8][9] çalıştığı ve Jüstinyen'in bu iş için büyük bir servet harcadığı belirtilir.[10] Bu çok eski binanın bir özelliği yapımında kullanılan bazı sütun, kapı ve taşların binadan daha eski yapı ve tapınaklardan getirilmiş olmasıdır.[11][11][12] Bizans döneminde Konstantinopolis Patriği'nin patrik kilisesi ve Doğu Ortodoks Kilisesi’nin merkezi olmuş bulunan Ayasofya, doğal olarak vaktiyle büyük bir “kutsal emanetler” koleksiyonunu içermekteydi.[13]
1453’de kilise camiye dönüştürüldükten sonra Osmanlı sultanı Fatih Sultan Mehmet’in gösterdiği büyük hoşgorüyle mozaiklerinden insan figürleri içerenler tahrip edilmemiş (içermeyenler ise olduğu gibi bırakılmıştır), yalnızca ince bir sıvayla kaplanmış ve yüzyıllarca sıva altında kalan mozaikler bu sayede doğal ve yapay tahribattan kurtulabilmiştir. Cami müzeye dönüştürülürken sıvaların bir kısmı çıkarılmış ve mozaikler yine gün ışığına çıkarılmıştır. Kısaca günümüzde tüm dünya insanları bu mozaikleri görmelerini bir kişiye borçludur: O da, sanatı seven ve diğer dinlere saygı gösteren Osmanlı sultanı Fatih Sultan Mehmet'tir. Günümüzde görülen Ayasofya binası aslında aynı yere üçüncü kez inşa edilen kilise olduğundan Üçüncü Ayasofya olarak da bilinir. İlk iki kilise isyanlar sırasında yıkılmıştır. Döneminin en geniş kubbesi olan Ayasofya’nın merkezî kubbesi, Bizans döneminde birçok kez çökmüş,[14][15] Mimar Sinan’ın binaya istinat duvarlarını eklemesinden itibaren hiç çökmemiştir.
Foto: Emre Aydoğan
Yer: Türkiye-İstanbul-Ayasofya Cami
In going through more of my photos from a trip I made to Spain two summers ago, I've found yet another that's decent enough to upload. One of the more recognizable parts of the Alhambra in Granada, Spain is a section known as the "Hall of the Ambassadors." It was in this area that Moorish leaders met with dignitaries from other parts of the world.
The room is magnificent, luxurious, and geometrically sublime. I took three varying exposures of light entering through some of the intricate windows along the walls and upon processing them, this image was the final result.
Some places force you to sit and wait. Others get the best out from you. Chowkandi does both to a photographer. It is an Islamic site where Muslim rulers and their subjects used to bury their dead. More precious the body, more elaborate its stones and more intricate its carvings.
This wonderful graveyard, one of 51 Chowkandi sites spread in Sindh and Baluchistan provinces, is a classic example of itself. You will be mesmerized by the lengths at which man can and decorate their dead. The workmanship is superb. And details are just too much for a newcomer.
Unfortunately, some of the precious stones have been stolen from the site and smuggled abroad. One may also find these carved bricks / stones in the drawing rooms of various politicians and officers. Such are the ways of the living. They steal the stones from the dead!
Muharram is the first month of Islamic lunar calendar, Hijrah. It is one of the four months that have been designated as Holy according to the Islamic belief, the other three being - Dhul-Qa'adah (Zulqa'dah), Dhul-Hijjah (Zulhijjah) and Rajab. However the first ten days of the month are considered as most sacred. Fasting is advocated in the month of Muharram, but the fasting on the tenth day of Muharram, called Ashura, is particularly important, as it is supposed to lead to great rewards.
Muharram is an important month to the people of Islamic faith. Many auspicious events of Quranic history are believed to have taken place during this month, specially during the tenth day. Some of the events are: The Prophet Adam was born and his repentance was accepted on this day, the Prophet Abraham was saved from the Fire, the Prophet Ishmael was delivered from the Sacrifice, the Prophet Joseph was reunited with his father, the Prophet Job was cured of his illness and the Prophet Solomon was ordained as king; however no accurate historical evidences could be found for them.
Shiite Muslims observes the first ten days of Muharram to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family, the grandson of the holy Prophet. Hence Muharram is not a festival in the celebratory sense to the sect as it mourns the Karbala tragedy. Muslims build paper and bamboo replica of the martyr's tomb, called Tajiya or Tazia, and carry them into the street in a procession to mourn Imam Hussain's brutal assassination. Mourners walk barefoot, beat their chests and cry out the name of Imam Hussain. Some plaintive verses are recited to signify that Hussain and his family had to suffer terrible thirst during their murder. The youths whip them with chains or hit them with knives to draw blood out of their body to symbolize the physical pangs that Imam Hussain had to suffer. Horses decorated as a battle horse with swords, etc. are also taken out in the procession in memory of Hussain's horse, Dul Dul.
Sunni Muslims also commemorate Imam Hussain's martyrdom but in a less demonstrative manner, concentrating instead on its spiritual aspect.
The word Muharram is derived from the word Haram, which actually means forbidden; it also means respect. Hence the month of Muharram encourages people to forbid themselves from all worldly pleasures and to respect the great children of the Mother Earth by commemorating their sacrifices towards the establishment of Truth and Justice.
Original can be found in: LANE-POOLE, STANLEY - The Mohammedan dynasties: chronological and genealogical tables (London:1894)
at:
www.archive.org/details/mohammadandynast00lane
(have altered dimensions to fit screen)
Muharram is the first month of Islamic lunar calendar, Hijrah. It is one of the four months that have been designated as Holy according to the Islamic belief, the other three being - Dhul-Qa'adah (Zulqa'dah), Dhul-Hijjah (Zulhijjah) and Rajab. However the first ten days of the month are considered as most sacred. Fasting is advocated in the month of Muharram, but the fasting on the tenth day of Muharram, called Ashura, is particularly important, as it is supposed to lead to great rewards.
Muharram is an important month to the people of Islamic faith. Many auspicious events of Quranic history are believed to have taken place during this month, specially during the tenth day. Some of the events are: The Prophet Adam was born and his repentance was accepted on this day, the Prophet Abraham was saved from the Fire, the Prophet Ishmael was delivered from the Sacrifice, the Prophet Joseph was reunited with his father, the Prophet Job was cured of his illness and the Prophet Solomon was ordained as king; however no accurate historical evidences could be found for them.
Shiite Muslims observes the first ten days of Muharram to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family, the grandson of the holy Prophet. Hence Muharram is not a festival in the celebratory sense to the sect as it mourns the Karbala tragedy. Muslims build paper and bamboo replica of the martyr's tomb, called Tajiya or Tazia, and carry them into the street in a procession to mourn Imam Hussain's brutal assassination. Mourners walk barefoot, beat their chests and cry out the name of Imam Hussain. Some plaintive verses are recited to signify that Hussain and his family had to suffer terrible thirst during their murder. The youths whip them with chains or hit them with knives to draw blood out of their body to symbolize the physical pangs that Imam Hussain had to suffer. Horses decorated as a battle horse with swords, etc. are also taken out in the procession in memory of Hussain's horse, Dul Dul.
Sunni Muslims also commemorate Imam Hussain's martyrdom but in a less demonstrative manner, concentrating instead on its spiritual aspect.
The word Muharram is derived from the word Haram, which actually means forbidden; it also means respect. Hence the month of Muharram encourages people to forbid themselves from all worldly pleasures and to respect the great children of the Mother Earth by commemorating their sacrifices towards the establishment of Truth and Justice.
Bidia or Bidya is a small spot on the coast of the Emirates of Fujeirah. There are two watch towers or Forts on a small rocky hill, overlooking the waters. At the bottom of the hills is a mosque. Behind the outposts are fertile lands filled with date trees and grazing grounds. The land surrounding the fort is said to have graves from battles over this spot. Though it is confirmed that Bidia is at least 1400 years old, but it is very likely that it could have be older still.
Muharram is the first month of Islamic lunar calendar, Hijrah. It is one of the four months that have been designated as Holy according to the Islamic belief, the other three being - Dhul-Qa'adah (Zulqa'dah), Dhul-Hijjah (Zulhijjah) and Rajab. However the first ten days of the month are considered as most sacred. Fasting is advocated in the month of Muharram, but the fasting on the tenth day of Muharram, called Ashura, is particularly important, as it is supposed to lead to great rewards.
Muharram is an important month to the people of Islamic faith. Many auspicious events of Quranic history are believed to have taken place during this month, specially during the tenth day. Some of the events are: The Prophet Adam was born and his repentance was accepted on this day, the Prophet Abraham was saved from the Fire, the Prophet Ishmael was delivered from the Sacrifice, the Prophet Joseph was reunited with his father, the Prophet Job was cured of his illness and the Prophet Solomon was ordained as king; however no accurate historical evidences could be found for them.
Shiite Muslims observes the first ten days of Muharram to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family, the grandson of the holy Prophet. Hence Muharram is not a festival in the celebratory sense to the sect as it mourns the Karbala tragedy. Muslims build paper and bamboo replica of the martyr's tomb, called Tajiya or Tazia, and carry them into the street in a procession to mourn Imam Hussain's brutal assassination. Mourners walk barefoot, beat their chests and cry out the name of Imam Hussain. Some plaintive verses are recited to signify that Hussain and his family had to suffer terrible thirst during their murder. The youths whip them with chains or hit them with knives to draw blood out of their body to symbolize the physical pangs that Imam Hussain had to suffer. Horses decorated as a battle horse with swords, etc. are also taken out in the procession in memory of Hussain's horse, Dul Dul.
Sunni Muslims also commemorate Imam Hussain's martyrdom but in a less demonstrative manner, concentrating instead on its spiritual aspect.
The word Muharram is derived from the word Haram, which actually means forbidden; it also means respect. Hence the month of Muharram encourages people to forbid themselves from all worldly pleasures and to respect the great children of the Mother Earth by commemorating their sacrifices towards the establishment of Truth and Justice.