Kokand Palace
Farg'ona
The Palace of Khudayar Khan, also called Kokand Urda, was built in the early 1870s as the grand residence of the last ruler of the Kokand Khanate. Designed by architect Mir Ubaydullo and constructed by 80 master builders with the labor of 16,000 conscripted workers, it originally featured seven courtyards and over 110 rooms. The palace is renowned for its richly tiled facade with geometric patterns and Arabic inscriptions, distinctively using yellow and green hues. Although much of the palace was destroyed during the Bolshevik takeover in 1918, 19 rooms and five courtyards survive, many restored with exquisite wood carvings, painted ceilings, and wall paintings. The throne room houses a replica throne that visitors can experience, while the original throne is preserved in St Petersburg's Hermitage Museum. Today, the palace serves as a museum and cultural venue, hosting festivals and showcasing the history and artistry of the Kokand Khanate within beautifully landscaped gardens.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to explore the palace during spring and autumn for pleasant weather and vibrant surroundings. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during festival periods, such as the biennial International Festival of Handicrafters. Guided tours enhance understanding of the palace's rich history and architectural details. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Comfortable footwear is suggested due to the size of the site and uneven surfaces in some restored areas.
Faits intéressants
- •The palace was constructed by 80 master builders and 16,000 conscripted laborers.
- •American diplomat Eugene Schuyler described it as more magnificent than any other Central Asian palace in the 19th century.
- •Khudayar Khan's original throne is housed in the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg, Russia.
- •The palace originally had around 114 to 119 rooms and seven courtyards, but only 19 rooms and five courtyards survive today.
- •The palace's facade uniquely features yellow and green tiles, differing from the typical blue and turquoise of Uzbek monuments.
Histoire
Constructed in the early 1870s, the Palace of Khudayar Khan was the last and most magnificent of seven palaces built by the Kokand Khans, symbolizing their power.
Following the Russian conquest, the palace was seized and looted as the Khanate became a vassal state.
During the Bolshevik Revolution, much of the palace was demolished, leaving only a fraction of its original rooms intact.
Restoration efforts began in the 20th century, notably in 1938 and later in 2009 and 2011, preserving the palace as a museum and cultural monument.
Guide du lieu
Main Entrance and Facade1870s
The imposing main entrance is accessed via a ramp 5 meters above ground, showcasing a richly tiled facade with geometric patterns and an Arabic inscription declaring it the 'High Palace of Seid Muhammad Khudayar Khan'. The vibrant yellow and green tiles distinguish it from other Uzbek monuments.
Courtyards1870s
Originally seven in number, five courtyards remain, each surrounded by ornately decorated rooms and halls. These open spaces provided light and ventilation and were central to palace life.
Throne Room1870s
The restored throne room features a replica of Khudayar Khan's throne, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of the Khan's seat of power. The original throne is preserved in the Hermitage Museum in Russia.
Wood Carvings and Painted Ceilings1870s
Many interiors boast finely crafted wood carvings and colorful painted ceilings, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of Central Asian artisans from the 19th century.
Contact
Téléphone: 97 764 68 62