Photo: Press Service of the President of Uzbekistan
President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev began his visit to Samarkand, where the session of the UNESCO General Conference will take place, by visiting the mausoleum of Imam al-Bukhari. The head of state reviewed the final stage of construction of the historical complex and the landscaping of its grounds, the presidential press service reported.
It was noted that the site has essentially been rebuilt from the ground up, in keeping with the high spiritual authority and great scholarly legacy of the eminent collector of hadiths (accounts of the Prophet Muhammad’s life), who holds a special place in the Islamic world.
At present, the territory of the Imam al-Bukhari complex has been expanded to cover 44 hectares, with all necessary conditions created for pilgrims. The mausoleum, a mosque for 10,000 worshippers, an administrative building, and a museum have already been completed. The architectural ensemble is given a majestic appearance by four minarets, each 75 meters tall.
According to the press service, during each of his visits to Samarkand, the president has visited this landmark and emphasized that the complex should serve not only as a site of pilgrimage but also as a center of science, enlightenment, education, and moral example—especially for young people.
Particular attention is given to the innovative museum, which presents the life and work of Imam al-Bukhari and his significant contribution to the development of Islamic scholarship. The museum features information about 25 prophets mentioned in the Quran, the genealogy of the Prophet Muhammad, his life in Mecca and Medina, and the process of collecting and recording hadiths.
Hotels and related facilities are nearing completion around the complex. Plans include one four-star hotel, two three-star hotels, and 22 family guesthouses.
The president instructed officials to expand visitor amenities at the holy site and increase the amount of green space.
During his trip to Samarkand, Mirziyoyev also visited the Hazrat Khizr complex and laid flowers at the grave of Uzbekistan’s first president, Islam Karimov.
