Hazrat Khizr Mosque — Attraction in Samarkand City

Nice

Samarkand (/ˈsæmərkænd/; Uzbek: Samarqand; Tajik: Самарқанд; Persian: سمرقند‎), also known as Samarqand, is a city in southeastern Uzbekistan and among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia. There is evidence of human activity in the area of the city from the late Paleolithic Era, though there is no direct evidence of when Samarkand was founded; several theories propose that it was founded between the 8th and 7th centuries BC. Prospering from its location on the Silk Road between China and the Mediterranean Sea, at times Samarkand was one of the largest cities of Central Asia

By the time of the Achaemenid Empire of Persia, it was the capital of the Sogdian satrapy. The city was conquered by Alexander the Great in 329 BCE, when it was known as Markanda, which was rendered in Greek as (Μαράκανδα). The city was ruled by a succession of Iranian and Turkic rulers until it was conquered by the Mongols under Genghis Khan in 1220. Today, Samarkand is the capitol of Samarqand Region and one of the largest cities of Uzbekistan.

The city is noted as a centre of Islamic scholarly study and the birthplace of the Timurid Renaissance. In the 14th century, Timur (Tamerlane) made it the capital of his empire and the site of his mausoleum, the Gur-e Amir. The Bibi-Khanym Mosque, rebuilt during the Soviet era, remains one of the city's most notable landmarks. Samarkand's Registan square was the city's ancient centre and is bound by three monumental religious buildings. The city has carefully preserved the traditions of ancient crafts: embroidery, goldwork, silk weaving, copper engraving, ceramics, wood carving, and wood painting.  In 2001, UNESCO added the city to its World Heritage List as Samarkand – Crossroads of Cultures.

Modern Samarkand is divided into two parts: the old city, and the new city, which was developed during the days of the Russian Empire and Soviet Union. The old city includes historical monuments, shops, and old private houses; the new city includes administrative buildings along with cultural centres and educational...

Hazrat Khizr Mosque (Hazrati Xizr masjidi) in Samarkand is a peaceful and beautifully maintained spot that’s well worth a visit—especially in the morning. Perched on a hillside near the Shah-i-Zinda complex, it offers a lovely panoramic view over the city, making it a perfect place to start your day.

The mosque itself is smaller compared to other grand monuments in Samarkand, but it has a unique charm. The grounds are beautifully landscaped, with well-kept paths, flowers, and quiet corners for reflection. The building features elegant tilework and wooden details that give it a warm, welcoming feel.

What makes this spot special is the atmosphere. It’s less crowded than the major tourist sights, and in the early morning, it’s especially serene. You can hear the birds, feel the breeze, and take in the view while enjoying the calm energy of the space.

It’s also historically significant, being one of the oldest religious sites in the city, with a connection to ancient traditions and local reverence.

If you're in Samarkand, don’t miss this gem. It may not be the biggest, but its setting, peacefulness, and beauty make it one of the most memorable places to visit. A...

Visiting Hazrat Khizr Mosque (Hazrati Xizr Masjidi) was a peaceful and enriching experience. Perched on a hill, it offers a sweeping view of Samarkand; an incredible vantage point to admire the city’s blend of history and modern life. The architecture is striking, with its elegant Islamic design, detailed wooden carvings, and vibrant patterns that make the space feel alive with tradition.

The mosque carries deep cultural meaning as the final resting place of Islam Karimov, Uzbekistan’s first president, making it not just a spiritual site but also one of national importance. Entry is free, and the atmosphere is calm, welcoming both faithfuls and visitors alike.

Historically, the mosque is named after Khizr, the patron saint of travelers, and though it was destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries, its 19th-century restoration has preserved its role as a cherished landmark.

What stood out most to me was the sense of serenity; the quiet prayers inside, the fresh breeze outside, and the gentle stillness that lingers across the hill. It’s not only a place of history and architecture, but also one of reflection. A must-visit when...