KonyeUrgench

Konye-Urgench, also known as Kunya-Urgench, is a town and archaeological site in the Khwarezm Region of northwestern Turkmenistan, near the modern city of Urgench. The name means “Old Urgench” in Turkic, reflecting its historical role as the ancient capital of Khwarezm.

Historically, the site corresponds to the medieval city of Urgench, which served as the capital of the Khwarezmian state and a major urban center from the 10th to 16th centuries. It experienced extensive development under Khwarezmian rule and later faced destruction after the Mongol invasions in the early 13th century, notably in 1220. The decline of the city contributed to shifts in regional power and settlement patterns, though the area remained inhabited and agriculturally productive.

Today Konye-Urgench is best known for its archaeological remains that illustrate the Khwarezmian civilization. The UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises several monuments and ruins dating from the 12th to 16th centuries, including mausoleums, mosques, and minarets. Among the notable structures are the Kutlug-Timur Minaret and the Turabek Khanum Mausoleum, which exemplify Khwarezmian architectural styles and the broader Central Asian Islamic heritage.

Konye-Urgench was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 for its testimony to Khwarezmian urban planning, architecture, and craftsmanship. The site is managed in coordination with Turkmen authorities and remains a focus for conservation and archaeological research.

Modern Konye-Urgench is a small administrative center in the Khorezm region and serves as a gateway for visitors to the ancient ruins. The area is connected by road to Urgench and other regional centers, with ongoing work to document and protect its historic remains.