Zoroastrians 'Tower of Silence' - Chilpik Kala

Only a 40km drive from Nukus, we stopped at Chilpik Kala, a circular structure on a hill top, that was originally a Zoroastrian burial place or 'Tower of Silence'.

In Zoroastrianism, once the dominant religion in Persia, towers such as Chilpik Kala were an important element in their burial rituals
In these kinds of towers, the bodies of the dead were exposed to the elements so that with the effect of the sun and birds (usually vultures) they could be disposed of naturally.

The impressive tower of Chilpik Kala is thought to have been built over 2000 years ago. Although it seems more likely a remnant of an ancient volcano.

It eventually became a signal tower until the Mongol invasion in the 13th century. It was scientifically studied until 1940 and today it is depicted on the coat of arms of the autonomous Republic of Karakalpakstan.

The way up is via lots of steps but over a long enough distance to be pleasant. Nevertheless we pause half way along for our guide, Quaat, to explain the legend associated. i.e. sons carried their old (but still alive!) fathers up to the top and left them there to die as old people were thought to have no value! This changed when one son hid his father in the basement. That father then helped his son to cure the king of an illness all the royal physicians couldn't. When the king discovered it was from the old man, instead of punishing the son he changed the custom and recognised old people do actually have value 😁

After a few more steps there was a short scramble to the summit. Kudos to the old people as we all made it!

From the top of the ruins there are excellent views over the surrounding country and to the river Amu Darya.Read more