Tomb of Prophet Noah

The Tomb of Noah is the most significant pilgrimage site related to the Prophet Noah in Nakhchivan. For centuries, locals have passed on word of mouth that Noah lived and died here. Ancient geographers’ notes also connect Nakhchivan with Noah’s name. Archaeological excavations in 2006 revealed the remains of such a building that served as a tomb at the place pointed out by this tradition. Thus, the tomb is an official site of pilgrimage attributed to Noah, given the religious beliefs and local history.

This is the tomb arrangement of a long process that you see today. Both in Ottoman and Republican periods, this structure has been repeatedly repaired and renovated. After archaeological studies were conducted in 2006, the tomb was redesigned in accordance with the discovered octagonal plan in order to reach an appearance that closely resembled its original one. The octagonal-bodied, conical-roofed tomb seen today is the product of the final reconstruction and reflects both historical layers and modern interventions.

It is situated to the south of the city center of Nakhchivan, between the “Nakhchivangala” Historical and Architectural Museum Complex and the Haydar Mosque. In this position, it is easily accessible and allows the tomb to be treated as a place of sanctity at the core of the city’s history. You will have easy access to the tomb by public transport or a short taxi ride.

As you enter, you’ll see the tomb above and the crypt (sub-tomb) below. A stone column in the crypt, reached by stone stairs, is believed in local tradition to mark the grave of Noah and his sister. The octagonal volume and conical roof above create a silhouette consistent with the tradition of monumental tombs in Nakhchivan, making the tomb easily recognizable even from a distance.

The tomb of Noah also shares a notable location, being built upon the ruins of an ancient temple. This indicates that the same space was considered sacred in successive periods of religious belief. The tomb you see before you today represents the form this long-standing tradition of sanctified spaces took during the Islamic era. When you visit, you will be witness to not just a single structure from one time period but numerous overlapping layers of faith and history.

This is a site of pilgrimage dedicated to the Prophet, so behavior should be calm, respectful, and measured. It is advisable not to raise one’s voice indoors, and in case of prayers, make them short and quiet. If you decide to take pictures, you should consult the attendant, especially in the crypt, and avoid the use of a flashlight for structural preservation and the safety of other visitors. Wearing headscarves is not demanded for women; it may be preferred as reflective of local customs.

The crypt is only accessible by stone stairs, so visitors who use wheelchairs, have difficulty navigating stairs, or walk with a cane will find the lower portion difficult to access. You can, however, easily view the upper tomb and the outside architecture. You should be able to fully explore the tomb and the crypt in about 15–30 minutes.

This time will, of course, extend naturally if you also include the surrounding museum and mosque in your visit. Spring and autumn are the most suitable times for your visit, as this is mainly an outdoor location with some walking involved. For this reason, weather conditions directly affect your visit. The crypt provides a cool environment in summer, while you should be more careful on the stairs in winter. By including the Tomb of Noah in your Nakhchivan itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to see and experience the origins of the city’s nickname “Noah’s Land.”