Tughrul Tower facts for kids
The Tuğrul Tower is a very old and special building in the city of Rey, Iran. It was built about 900 years ago, in the 12th century! This tall brick tower, which stands 20 meters high, is actually the tomb of a powerful leader named Tuğrul Beg. He was a ruler from the Seljuk empire and passed away in Rey in the year 1063. Today, people who protect old buildings in Iran take care of this amazing tower.
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What is Tuğrul Tower?
The Tuğrul Tower is a historic monument located in the ancient city of Rey, near modern-day Tehran. It's a circular tower made of brick, known for its unique design. This tower is not just any old building; it's a special kind of tomb called a mausoleum. It was built to honor and bury a very important person from history.
Who was Tuğrul Beg?
Tuğrul Beg was a very important leader. He was the founder of the Seljuk Empire, a powerful group of rulers who controlled a large area of land many centuries ago. He was born around 990 and died in 1063. Tuğrul Beg was known for being a strong military leader and for expanding his empire. The tower is a lasting tribute to his importance in history.
What does the tower look like?
The Tuğrul Tower is built from strong bricks and has a unique shape. It looks like a giant, ribbed cylinder. The outside walls have 24 angles, which makes it look like a star from above. This design helps the tower stand strong and also creates interesting shadows as the sun moves across the sky. The tower is 20 meters tall, which is about the height of a six-story building!
The Tower's Special Features
The tower's design is not just for looks; it's also very clever. The way the bricks are laid out helps the tower stay cool in summer and warm in winter. The inside of the tower was once covered by a dome, which helped with the sound inside. Even without its original dome today, if you stand inside and speak, your voice sounds amazing because of the way the walls are shaped. It's like a natural echo chamber!
Images for kids
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Detail of brickwork of upper sections. The Seljuki style is readily observable.
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Portal and interior
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View of interior, which was originally domed with a conical cap.
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Even today without the dome, the precise acoustic properties of the interior are striking.
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