Built in commemoration of Sayyed Mir Yahya, a missionary from Chinese Xinjiang, the eponymous astana is a significant monument of the Noorbakhshi order of Shia Sufism in Baltistan. Initiated upon the death of Sayyed Mir Yahya in 1632, the mausoleum was reportedly constructed over a period of ten years. Astana was built in the traditional way using stone and timber, with cribbage columns, and embellished wooden work in both interiors and exteriors.
The tomb structure was in an extreme state of deterioration when the local community with technical assistance of Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (AKCS-P) began restoration work in 2004. The most affected part of the structure was the north-western corner of the roof, where erosion of the earthen roof top had resulted in settlement and collapse of the roof structure. The recovery of the structure by the community and AKCS-P has rescued an important local religious landmark on the brink of ruin in a modest and culturally appropriate manner. Through the active involvement of the local residents, and drawing upon other excellent models of community-led conservation undertaken in the Gilgit Baltistan region, the project has itself become a notable example of successful local restoration effort where community took the lead to initiate the process with AKCS-P providing expertise as needed. Through the voluntary efforts of the community and the use of traditional building techniques to realign and stabilize the structure, the tomb has been returned to its former status as a cultural symbol of Shigar valley.
The Astana has a total covered area of 73 m². Restoration work on the project commenced in April 2004 and was completed in October 2006. Total cost of project was US$ 8,350 which was fully contributed by local community while AKCS-P provided technical assistance. The project was recognized with Award of Merit in the 2007 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards.
Source: Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan
