The Beni Makhan Mosque, also known as the Ertuğrul Gazi Mosque, is a historical site situated in the city of Mary, Turkmenistan. Its origin dates back to the late 19th century during the Russian Empire's expansion into Central Asia. This mosque holds an essential place in the Islamic heritage of Turkmenistan and symbolizes the cultural and religious history of the Turkmen people. The architecture of the mosque is especially notable, reflecting both Turkmen and Ottoman influences. Over time, it has been restored and preserved as a representation of the rich Islamic history of the region.
Tourism in Mary, and Turkmenistan as a whole, has been relatively slow to develop due to its past as part of the Soviet Union, where travel was heavily restricted. After gaining independence in 1991, Turkmenistan slowly started to open its doors to tourists. Mary, being one of the oldest inhabited cities in Central Asia and the second-largest city in Turkmenistan, steadily began to attract visitors, particularly those interested in the Great Silk Road history and Islamic architecture.
The inclusion of Merv, an ancient city near Mary and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in travel itineraries increased the city's visibility to the international community. Despite this, tourism to the Beni Makhan Mosque and Mary has often been hampered by stringent visa regulations and the somewhat isolated nature of Turkmenistan.
The most recent trends in Turkmenistan's tourism sector involve gradual liberalization and promotion of the country's unique attractions. The rich history and cultural sites of Mary are central to this strategy. Adventure tourism is also gaining popularity, with the Karakum Desert and the "Door to Hell" in Darvaza piquing curiosity among more adventurous travelers.
Sustainable and ecotourism are becoming increasingly important as the country seeks to preserve its natural and historical sites for future generations. Turkmenistan is also enhancing its transport infrastructure and easing visa procedures to become more accessible to tourists from around the world.
In recent years, the Turkmen government has been actively participating in international travel expos to promote the country as a cultural and adventure tourism destination. These efforts have seen a slow yet steady rise in international tourist arrivals, with a focus on guided tours that highlight the historical significance of places like the ancient ruins of Merv and the legacy contained within mosques such as Beni Makhan.
Religious Places (2)
Historical Places (22)
Museums (2)
