Gur Amir

an early 15th-century mausoleum in Samarkand, an outstanding monument of medieval Central Asian architecture. Built by order of Timur (Tamerlane) in the architectural complex of Muhammad Sultan (late 14th century, partially preserved). The octahedral mausoleum area is crowned with a majestic spherical-conical ribbed dome atop a tall drum; polychrome facings lend an aura of solemnity and splendor to the building. The interior is decorated with onyx paneling and murals in blue and gold. Under Ulug-Beg (in the 1420’s) Gur Amir was enlarged; it was restored in 1967. Timur, Ulug-Beg, and other Timurids are buried in Gur Amir.