Haci Giray Han Türbesi
Bakhchisaray, Ukraine

The tomb of Haci Giray Khan (d. 1466) is located in Salaciq which, along with Eski Yurt and Qirq Yer, is one of three medieval khanate settlements located in the vicinity of today's Bakhchisaray. It was built in 1501 by his son and successor Mengli Giray I, who ruled Crimea with two interruptions from 1467 to 1514, as a vassal of the Ottoman Empire. Other royal tombs of the Giray Khanate are found in two cemeteries in Eski Yurt and in the cemetery of the palace in Bakhchisaray.


The tomb of Haci Giray Khan is an octagonal structure made of cut stone, with slender columns embedded at the corners. It is entered from an enclosed rectangular portico to the north. The burial chamber is roofed with a low dome, protected by a pyramidal roof on the exterior that is divided into two tiers with an octagonal drum. Originally covered with brick tiles, the roof is now sealed with lead panels. A single window on the western wall illuminates the interior.


The tomb is distinguished with rich stone carvings on its portico and portal. The portal inside the portico is set in a thick frame of floral arabesques carved in relief, and is bordered by cable molding. Its arch rests on embedded columns. The simpler portico façade features muqarnas carvings at the springing of the portico arch and is framed with cable molding. The two niches on the inner sides of the portico are crowned with muqarnas semi-vaults.


Sources:


Aslanapa, Oktay. Kirim ve Kuzey Azerbaycan'da Türk Eserleri. Istanbul: Baha Matbaasi, 1979. 16-20.


Aslanapa, Oktay. 1983. "Kirim'da Türk Eserleri". Emel Dergisi 183. http://www.ismailgaspirali.org/yazi.asp?yazi_no=113505. [Accessed November 21, 2005]


"The Crimean Sites". Taurical National University Website. http://www.ccssu.crimea.ua/eng/crimea/sights/. [Accessed November 21, 2005]

Location
Bakhchisaray, Ukraine
Images & Videos
Associated Names
Events
1501/906-07 AH
Style Periods
Variant Names
Haci Giray Khan Tomb
Variant
Hajji Giray Khan Mausoleum
Variant
Building Usages
funerary