Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Historical mosque in Samarkand, Uzbekistan
The Bibi-Khanym Mosque, east of the Registan on the road to Siab Bazaar, is one of Samarkand's key monuments. In the 15th century it was among the largest and grandest mosques in the Islamic world, a masterpiece of the Timurid Renaissance. Timur decided to build it after his Indian campaign of 1399 as the Friday mosque of his new capital, naming it after his chief wife. When he returned from another campaign in 1404 it was nearly finished, but he was unhappy and ordered changes, especially to the main dome. Rushed building and sheer ambition caused structural problems from the start, and centuries of repairs followed until large sections collapsed in the earthquake of 1897. By the mid-20th century only a grand ruin stood, and much of it has been rebuilt since the 1970s. The complex measures 167 by 109 metres; the entrance portal rises about 35 metres and a huge turquoise dome crowns the prayer hall. In the middle of the courtyard sits a giant marble Quran stand given by Ulugh Beg, and smaller domed mosques flank the court, some still with original tiles.
Allow an hour. The domes look best in the morning or before sunset. Pair it with the Siab Bazaar next door for bread, dried fruit and sweets, and with the Hazrat Khizr Mosque and Shah-i-Zinda, both walkable. It is a ticketed monument; modest dress is appreciated.
Hours and prices change — check before you go. Source: en.wikipedia.org
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AttractionSamarkand, Uzbekistan
