Seit Djemaletdin Medieval Mosque Ruins (Annau Mosque); Anau, Turkmenistan

During the Timurid Dynasty (15th–16th centuries A.D.), governor-general Abu Kasim Baber ordered the construction of the Seit Djemaletdin Mosque between 1446 and 1457, within the remains of an ancient Parthian fortress.

Situated about 9 miles (15km) south east of modern Ashgabat, the mosque was part of a large religious complex, which included a funeral hall, a cloister for Sufi monks, and a madrasa (religious school).

The mosque was completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1948. However, the ruins are still considered a functioning mosque. Turkmens from the surrounding area continue to visit the mosque in significant numbers to pray, and perform ceremonies unique to Turkmen Muslims.

The Seit Djemaletdin Mosque is situated on top of an ancient Parthian era fortress. The site and the surrounding area has been occupied for the last 7,000 years. As I walked along the paths, numerous pottery shards left over the ages were found.

The remains of the two remaining pillars that used to support a large dome above where the people are standing. Much of the structure had still been intact until a devastating earthquake occurred in 1948. In spite of the extensive damage, Turkmens still visit the ruined mosque to pray and have feasts at the bottom of the hill behind it.

The mosque was part of a larger religious complex; it included a funeral hall, cloister for Sufi monks, and a religious school.

The last remains of archways that supported the upper floors of the mosque.

Remains of the intricate patterns carved into the brick. There are also traces of blue mosaic tiles. The color blue was much sought after for decoration in ancient and medieval Central Asia due to its rarity and expense. It came to symbolize the wealth power of ruling dynasties of the age, as well as dedication to the faith.

The remains of the east wall. The mosque was built along the slope of the ancient Parthian fortress. At the base, it appears that the builders used boulders to create an even foundation for the mosque.

Many Turkmens have blended traditional pre-Islamic beliefs with Islamic beliefs, resulting in unique, localized religious practices. In the corner of this corridor, is a miniature baby cradle, and a few small toy cars. They were left as an offering in exchanged for being blessed with fertility.

About 300-400 feet from the mosque ruins is an underground cistern. The cistern has ceased supplying water for centuries, but today is used as another sacred spot for asking for blessings. Turkmens descend into this cistern. Then they circle the stones and bricks in the center of this image three times while praying. After their third circle, they leave something behind as an offering. Objects such as house or car keys, small toys, wedding bands, and coins can be found on the bricks and stones.

These ancient grinding stones were once used to grind wheat into flour. Today, they are used as another place to make offerings for a blessing. Like the cistern, a variety of little objects can be found on them.

Over many years, Turkmens who have come to the site have constructed hundreds of these little stone structures. Many of them have objects placed on top. Sometimes, it can be something as simple as another mini stone structure. Some argue that this practice is rooted in Zoroastrian tradition, but maintained after the introduction of Islam in Turkmen culture.