Tuyu Valley Maza Village: The Living Museum of Raw Earth and Ancient Silk Road Faith

1.Tuyu Valley Maza: Village, often hailed as "China's First Earth Village," is a prehistoric settlement located at the southern base of the Flaming Mountains in Shanshan County, Turpan. This ancient village, covering approximately 5 square kilometers, serves as a remarkable testament to the region's raw earth architectural heritage and its role as a pivotal intersection of civilizations along the Silk Road. The village is uniquely positioned at the mouth of the Tuyu Valley Grand Canyon, where the vibrant red canyon walls provide a stark contrast to the yellow-toned earthen dwellings.

2.The history of Maza: Village is deeply intertwined with the spiritual evolution of Xinjiang. It was a major center for Buddhism before becoming a significant site for Islam starting in the 10th century. This religious transition is physically represented by the proximity of the Tuyu Valley Grottos—ancient Buddhist cave temples—to the village's centerpiece, the Tuyu Valley Maza. This maza is recognized as one of the most important Islamic holy sites in Xinjiang, often referred to as the "Mecca of the East" by local pilgrims.

Architecturally, the village is a living museum of raw earth construction. Most of the buildings are hundreds of years old, constructed from sun-dried mud bricks and wood, featuring traditional Uyghur elements such as the "Aywang" skylights and carved wooden doors. These structures are naturally insulated, providing a cooling sanctuary against the extreme heat of the Turpan Basin. The village layout is organic and maze-like, following the natural contours of the valley floor.

Today, Tuyu Valley Maza Village remains an active community where traditional Uyghur culture is preserved in its most authentic form. Visitors can observe locals tending to lush vineyards, performing traditional music, and maintaining a lifestyle that has changed little over the centuries. The site offers a profound experience of time standing still, making it a premier destination for those seeking the historical and spiritual soul of the Western Regions.