The Legend of Bibi-Khanum
Bibi-Khanum, the favorite wife of Emir Timur (Tamerlane), decided to surprise her husband with a magnificent mosque while he was away at war. Thousands of architects and builders created a masterpiece of sapphire and turquoise. But the main architect fell madly in love with Bibi-Khanum and refused to complete the work unless she allowed him to kiss her. To finish the gift before Timur returned, she consented — but through her veil. The kiss was so passionate it left a trace on her cheek. Timur noticed the mark upon his return but said nothing until he brought her to the top of the mosque and p