Kok Gumbaz Mosque

Kok Gumbaz Mosque

Qashqadaryo

75/10060 min

The Kuk Gumbaz Mosque is a prominent architectural monument located in Shahrisabz, Qashqadaryo Region, Uzbekistan. Constructed between 1434 and 1435 by Ulug Beg Mirzo in honor of his father Shah Rukh Mirzo, it stands as the main mosque within the Dorut Tilavat complex. The mosque's square structure measures approximately 12.5 by 12.6 meters and is crowned by a large, blue-tiled dome, which inspires its name meaning "Blue Dome." The building features deep tunnels on all four sides and a broad eastern porch adorned with geometric decorations and traditional floral ceramics. Inside, the mosque's interior is richly decorated with Quranic verses in Kufic and Suls scripts, including Surah Fath and Surah Al-Baqarah, inscribed on the dome and facade. The architectural design includes eight interconnected small arches supported by sixteen larger arches, with spiral staircases built into the corners of the brick walls. Despite damage to some columns and the bulakhona, the mosque remains a significant example of Timurid architecture, reflecting both religious and artistic heritage. It has undergone several renovations, notably in the 1970s and 1995–1996, to preserve its historical and cultural value, although some original details were lost due to earlier restoration efforts.

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Astuce: Visitors are advised to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate tile work and inscriptions. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Modest dress is required as it is an active place of worship. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the mosque's historical and architectural significance. Discounts may be available for students and groups.

Faits intéressants

  • The mosque's name "Kuk Gumbaz" means "Blue Dome," inspired by its striking blue-tiled dome.
  • Inscriptions on the dome include verses 1–3 of Surah Fath and verses from Surah Juma, written in Kufic script.
  • The facade features Quranic verses from Surah Al-Baqarah repeatedly stating "Allah is great" in Kufic Bannai script.
  • Four spiral staircases are built into the corners of the mosque's brick walls, a distinctive architectural feature.
  • The mosque is part of the Dorut Tilavat complex, located near the Chorsu shopping complex in Shahrisabz.

Histoire

1434

The Kuk Gumbaz Mosque was built in 1434–1435 by Ulug Beg Mirzo for his father Shah Rukh Mirzo, during the Timurid era.

It forms the main monument of the Dorut Tilavat complex in Shahrisabz.

Over the centuries, the mosque has witnessed multiple renovations, especially in the 1970s and again in the mid-1990s to commemorate Amir Temur's 660th anniversary.

However, some original features were lost due to poor restoration work in the late 20th century.

The mosque's inscriptions and architectural features reflect the rich cultural and religious traditions of the Timurid dynasty.

Guide du lieu

1
Main Prayer Hall1434-1435
Ulug Beg Mirzo

The mosque's interior prayer hall is a square space measuring approximately 12.7 by 12.7 meters, featuring eight small interconnected arches supported by sixteen larger arches. The hall is richly decorated with Quranic inscriptions and traditional floral ceramic patterns on columns and arches.

2
Blue Dome1434-1435
Ulug Beg Mirzo

The mosque's most distinctive feature is its large dome covered with blue tiles, which gives the mosque its name. The dome is lined with mosaic brick tiles inscribed with verses from the Holy Qur'an in Kufic script, including Surah Fath and Surah Juma.

3
Eastern Porch1434-1435
Ulug Beg Mirzo

The mosque is entered from the east through a wide porch about 10 meters wide. The porch's pediment is decorated with geometric patterns and Arabic inscriptions, including the phrase "Allah is great" and verses from Surah Al-Baqarah.