Kyrgyzstan to Improve Cemetery Conditions at Sulaiman-Too Heritage Site

Joint efforts are underway by Kyrgyz state institutions to enhance the ecological state and safety of cemeteries located within the Sulaiman-Too museum complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Ministry of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy announced the development of a comprehensive action plan aimed at improving environmental conditions and ensuring fire safety.

The initiative also focuses on creating a more conducive environment for visitors and pilgrims. As part of this effort, the Council of Ulemas (Muslim scholars) of Kyrgyzstan has issued a religious decree, or fatwa. This fatwa supports the dismantling of existing metal fences around graves, provided the consent of the fence owners is obtained.

Consequently, close relatives of individuals interred in the Sulaiman-Too cemeteries are being urged to grant permission for the removal of these metal enclosures. They have until June 7, 2026, to provide their consent. This measure is part of a broader effort to manage and preserve the historical and cultural significance of the site.

For context, burials have been prohibited in the cemeteries situated on the southern side of Sulaiman-Too since 1978. The current actions aim to address the upkeep and environmental quality of the existing burial grounds within this significant cultural zone.