Hazrati Imam complex — Attraction in Tashkent

Barakh-khan Madrasah was built in the XVI century by Suyunidzh-khan, an Ulugbek’s grandson. It is a known fact that became a location of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Central Asia. It is also the place where the rich library of oriental manuscripts is found. A special premise of the Barakh-khan Madrasah library is used to keep the world-known Koran of Caliph Osman. It is the primary source of holy Islam book written in the mid-VII century. The ancient manuscript of very huge size, containing 353 parchment pages with the Koran original text, was kept for centuries in the caliphs’ treasury (consecutively in cities of Medina, Damascus and Bagdad). From Damascus, during Timur’s ministry, the Osman’s (Ottoman) Koran found its way to Uzbekistan, then (as late as in the ХIХ century) it was sent to Saint Petersburg where it was kept before the revolution. After it the Koran was brought to Central Asia via Ufa.

A legend has it that Caliph Osman was killed when he was reading this book, and from that time its pages made of deerskin keep his blood stains, since that the Osman’s Koran became a holy relic, kept at court of the subsequent caliphs first in Medina, then in Damascus and Bagdad. Different religious movements and sects, originated further inside the caliphate, at best, could deny selected parts in the scripture, claiming that they were distorted by careless scribes by mistake, or even with malicious intent of the caliph, who, for example, has not been honored up to date by the Shias, the supporters of inheritable power of Ali’s family. But they were not able to oppose other holy texts to the Ottoman Koran.

The historians do not know the exact destiny of all the manuscripts, after the occupation of Bagdad by the Mongolian khan Hulagu in 1258, who executed caliph al-Mustasim with his numerous servitors. But in the XV century the Koran with dried blood stains cropped up in Samarkand. First the Koran was kept at court of Mirzo Ulugbek, the Amir Timur’s grandson, who ordered to make a giant marble lectern for it in the Bibi-Khanum Mausoleum yard, then it found its way to the mosque of Sheikh Khodja Akhrar – a native of Tashkent.

When in 1868 Samarkand was occupied by the troops of the Russian Empire and annexed to the Turkestan Governorate General, the major-general Abramov, head of Zerafshan district, having known about this unique manuscript, withdrew it form the mosque by paying 100 gold rubles as a compensation to uncomforted caretakers. Then the Koran was sent to Tashkent to the governor general Konstantin von Kaufman, who a year later donated it to the Imperial Public Library in St-Petersburg.

It is still unknown how the Ottoman Koran found its way to Movarounnahr. According to the most prevailing version, the relic was found in 1393 during the invasion of the troops of Amir Timur who was building up a library of valuable manuscripts in his capital Samarkand. While according to a legend existed in the Sufi order Nakshbandia, headed by Sheikh Khodja Akhrar in the ХV century, it was obtained by a catchy dervish in troublous times upon Mongolian invasions. But among the Tashkent residents who considered Kaffal Shashi to be the first patron of the city there is a more popular folk legend according to which Khalif Osman’s Koran was brought from Bagdad by Kaffal Shashi. A unique handmade book was presented by Bagdad Khalif for Kaffal Shashi’s an outsanding poetic reply to the Byzantine Emperor.

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The Hazret Imam Complex in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, is an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking a profound blend of history, stunning architecture, and spiritual serenity. Stepping into this revered complex feels like a journey back in time, where centuries of Islamic culture and craftsmanship unfold before your eyes. The intricate details of the madrasahs and mosques are simply breathtaking. From the mesmerizing blue domes adorned with delicate tilework to the meticulously carved wooden doors and columns, every corner tells a story of incredible artistry and devotion. The peaceful courtyards, often featuring a quiet fountain, provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city, inviting contemplation and reflection. A true highlight is the Muyi Mubarak Library, home to one of the world's oldest Qurans – the Uthman Quran. To stand in the presence of such an ancient and historically significant manuscript is a truly awe-inspiring experience that resonates deeply, regardless of your personal beliefs. Beyond the main attractions, take time to wander through the complex. You'll discover the mausoleum of Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, a revered figure after whom the complex is named, and the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari. The blend of ancient structures and the relatively newer (yet still traditionally styled) Hazret Imam Mosque, completed in 2007, showcases a seamless continuation of Uzbek architectural heritage. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone who appreciates beauty and tranquility, Hazret Imam offers an unforgettable experience. Be sure to dress modestly out of respect for the religious customs. This complex is not just a collection of buildings; it's a living testament to Uzbekistan's rich cultural and religious past, a place that will leave you with a lasting sense of wonder...

Khazret Imam Ensemble.

The ensemble of the monuments began to take its shape around the burial-place of Kaffal ash-Shashi (903-976), the first Tashkent’s imam and propagator of Islam. It was he after whom the square was named Khazret Imam (‘Saint Imam’). In 1541, a Mausoleum was built over his grave.

The main parts of the Khazret Imam complex are: Tilla Sheikh Mosque: This is one of the oldest mosques in Tashkent, with beautiful architecture and interior decoration. Mullah Kaffal Shashkiri Library: Especially valuable is the sacred Osman’s Koran, stained with the blood of Caliph Uthman, who was reading it at the time of his assassination in Medina in 656, and which is on display in the library’s special hall. Imam Hazrat Rukhobod mosque: Named after Imam Hazrat Rukhobod, who was famous spiritual. In the 19th century the the Juma Mosque was built, the huge Friday Mosque, with its bright turquoise domes. The Hazrat Iman Mosque, was constructed in just four months in 2007.

The Khast Imam square with the architectural complex looks oriental and ambient, especially at night: thanks to the illumination, the whole complex resembles a mirage of a fairytale city floating in the air from old Middle Eastern...