Sulayman Mountain

Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain

UNESCO World Heritage Site
Location	Kyrgyzstan
Criteria	Cultural: (iii), (vi)
Reference	1230rev
Inscription	2009 (33rd Session)
Area	112 ha (280 acres)
Buffer zone	4,788 ha (11,830 acres)
Coordinates	40°31′52″N 72°46′58″E / 40.53111°N 72.78278°E / 40.53111; 72.78278
Location of Sulayman Mountain in Kyrgyzstan Show map of Kyrgyzstan Sulayman Mountain (West and Central Asia) Show map of West and Central Asia

The Sulayman Mountain (Kyrgyz: Сулайман-Тоо, also known as Sulaiman-Too, Sulayman Rock, or The Throne of Sulayman) is the only World Heritage Site located entirely in the country of Kyrgyzstan.^[a][1] It is located in the city of Osh and was once a major place of pre-Muslim pilgrimage. The rock rises abruptly from the surrounding plains of the Fergana Valley and is a popular place among locals and visitors, with a splendid view. Despite its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sulayman Mountain and its associated facilities suffer from significant neglect. The site, although historically and culturally vital, has areas in dire need of repair, particularly the southern approaches, which require immediate attention. Visitors who hike up and down the mountain face challenging conditions, as there is no shade, no water sources, no stands selling refreshments, and no toilets or other basic facilities. The museum, established during the Soviet era, shows clear signs of disrepair and lacks adequate investment to maintain or enhance its offerings. Exhibitions are poorly curated, with random artifacts presented without proper context, explanations, or guidance.

This mountain is thought by some researchers and historians to be the famous landmark of antiquity known as the “Stone Tower”, which Claudius Ptolemy wrote about in his famous treatise Geography.^[2][3][4] It marked the midpoint on the ancient Silk Road, the overland trade route taken by caravans between Europe and Asia.

Sulayman (Solomon) is a prophet in the Qur'an, and the mountain contains a shrine that supposedly marks his grave. Women who ascend to the shrine on top and crawl though an opening across the holy rock will, according to legend, give birth to healthy children. The trees and bushes on the mountain are draped with numerous "prayer flags", small pieces of cloth that are tied to them.

According to the UNESCO, the mountain is "the most complete example of a sacred mountain anywhere in Central Asia, worshipped over several millennia".^[5] The site is still a popular place for local Muslims, with stairs leading up to the highest peak where there stands a small mosque originally built by Babur in 1510. Much of the mosque was reconstructed in the late 20th century.

The rock also contains the National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex Sulayman that was built during the Soviet era, showing archaeological findings from the area and its history. The lower slope of the mountain is surrounded by a cemetery. While the mountain remains a prominent and sacred site in the city of Osh, the current state of its infrastructure and museum detracts from its historical significance. Hikers must navigate the steep terrain without the benefit of any shaded areas or access to water, and there are no stands or facilities providing refreshments or basic amenities like toilets. The museum, which dates back to the Soviet period, appears to have received little to no investment since its establishment. Exhibits are often poorly labeled, with some items accompanied by vague or even comical descriptions—such as a historical book simply labeled ‘a book.’ The lack of proper signage, context, and tourist-friendly information makes it difficult for visitors to fully appreciate the site’s cultural and historical importance. Additionally, the use of harsh LED lighting throughout the museum further diminishes the atmosphere, making the experience less immersive and educational.^[6] The site would greatly benefit from restoration efforts, better curation, and the addition of essential facilities to preserve its heritage and enhance the visitor experience.

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  View of the mountain from the city of Osh
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  View of the five peaks from Alishir Navoi Street
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  Rock formations on one of the summits
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  Detail of sedimentary rock strata (horizontal bedding)
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  The Sulaiman-Too Mosque, Osh, Kyrgyzstan
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  Cemetery on lower slopes with Sulayman-Too Mosque in background
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  View of Osh seen downhill across cemetery and mosque
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  Mosque, viewed from above
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  Panorama of Osh, (mosque in foreground) viewed from track to one of mountain caves
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  Panorama of Osh showing high, snow-capped peaks of the Alay Range to the south of city
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  Detail of one of the mountain’s caves
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  Sparse tree cover on arid upper slopes
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  Decorative gateway to staircase leading to museum precinct
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  Sulayman-Too Archeological Museum on one of peaks
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  Archeological Museum entrance
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  House of Babur exterior
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  House of Babur interior
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  House of Babur detail of dome interior
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  Café at base (viewing platform and House of Babur visible in background)
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  Mausoleum of Asif ibn Barkhiya
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  The Gates of Fire (commemorating Zoroastrian fire temple on mountain)
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  Kyrgyz women rest while on visit to sacred mountain

• List of World Heritage Sites in Kyrgyzstan

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