Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Mosque in Samarkand
The Hazrat Khizr Mosque sits on a small hill at the southern edge of the Afrasiab plateau, opposite the Shah-i-Zinda ensemble, and is named after al-Khidr, the revered figure of Islamic tradition. The present building dates from the mid-19th century, built in 1854 to 1855 according to the inscription on its mihrab, over far older foundations. Tradition says the first mosque here was built after Qutayba ibn Muslim took Samarkand in 712, by one of his companions, Muhammad ibn Wasi, at the southern gate of Afrasiab on the site of an older temple revered by the Sogdians. It was destroyed in the Mongol invasion of 1220 and the spot stayed empty for centuries before it was rebuilt. The mosque is small and elegant, with an open summer iwan on carved wooden columns, a painted wooden ceiling, a small dome and a minaret. Since 2018 its grounds have also held the mausoleum of Islam Karimov, Uzbekistan's first president. The terrace looks out over Bibi-Khanym, Siab Bazaar and the city's domes.
It is a place of worship: dress modestly, visit outside prayer times, and women cover their hair. Entry is free. Allow half an hour and stand on the terrace for the view, best before sunset. It sits between Siab Bazaar and Shah-i-Zinda, all easily walked.
Hours and prices change — check before you go. Source: en.wikipedia.org
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