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| Sugong Tower, Turpan |
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Formally named the Omer Hoja Tower of Gratitude, the Sugong Tower is located four km southeast of Turpan. Sulayman, the second prefectural prince of Turpan, built the tower in 1778, a year after the death of his father, Eminhoja.
During the reigns of Qing Dynasty emperors Kangxi, Yongzheng and Qianlong, Eminhoja aided the imperial army in suppressing rebellions in Zhunger and other areas. In return, the court bestowed the title of duke, and later, prefectural prince, upon him, and Emperor Qianlong decreed that the title be made hereditary. Sulayman built the tower to commemorate his father and express gratitude to the Qing court.
The tower and the mosque next to it, which has capacity for 1,000 worshipers, are built with sand-colored bricks, presenting a golden appearance that harmonizes with the natural environment. The structure departs from the traditional symmetry of Islamic design, with its minaret on one side, yet still maintains a balanced look. |
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