Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Samarqand
The Bibi-Khanym Mosque, located in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, stands as a monumental symbol of the Timurid Renaissance and Islamic architecture. Commissioned by Saray Mulk Khanum, wife of the conqueror Timur, it was constructed between 1399 and 1405 following Timur's Indian campaign. At its peak, it was among the largest and most magnificent mosques in the Islamic world, featuring a vast courtyard enclosed by outer walls measuring 167 by 109 meters. The mosque is renowned for its grand parade portal standing 35 meters high and the monumental dome rising approximately 40 meters above the square base. Architecturally, it follows the classic "four-iwan" scheme, with three domes facing the courtyard and originally surrounded by open galleries supported by over 400 marble columns. Despite early structural issues due to ambitious scale and rushed construction, and a period of deterioration after restoration efforts ceased in the 16th century, the mosque remains a treasured heritage site. Extensive Soviet-era and recent restorations have revived much of its former glory, with ongoing projects aiming to preserve its intricate decorations and monumental scale. The mosque's design and history reflect the cultural and political aspirations of Timur's empire and remain a highlight of Samarkand's rich architectural landscape.
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Astuce: Visit during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Purchase tickets in advance if available to avoid queues. Check for guided tours that provide deeper historical insights. Look for combined tickets or discounts when visiting other Samarkand monuments. Wear comfortable shoes as the site is expansive and partially under restoration.
Faits intéressants
- •The mosque was once one of the largest in the Islamic world during the 15th century.
- •It features over 400 marble columns supporting its original galleries.
- •The monumental dome reaches about 40 meters in height, making it one of the largest domes of its time.
- •The mosque implements the classic 'four-iwan' architectural scheme common in medieval Islamic structures.
- •Restoration efforts have included adding Quranic inscriptions, such as Surat al-Baqarah, to the main sanctuary iwan.
Histoire
Construction of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque began in 1399 after Timur's Indian campaign, inspired by earlier Islamic architecture.
By 1404 it was nearly complete, but structural problems emerged due to its ambitious scale and rushed building process.
Timur named it after his wife Saray Mulk Khanum, who commissioned the mosque.
In the late 16th century, restoration efforts were halted, leading to gradual decay and damage from earthquakes and weather.
The mosque suffered plundering of materials over centuries.
In the 20th century, the Soviet government initiated major restoration, which continues today under Uzbek authorities with international support, aiming to preserve this iconic Timurid monument.
Guide du lieu
Main Parade Portal1400s
The grand entrance portal stands 35 meters high and leads visitors into the expansive courtyard, showcasing intricate Timurid tilework and monumental scale.
Central Monumental Dome1400s
Rising approximately 40 meters above its square base, this dome is the mosque’s largest and was a technical challenge due to its size and rushed construction.
Courtyard and Four-Iwan Layout1400s
The mosque follows the traditional four-iwan courtyard design with three domes facing the courtyard and originally featured open galleries supported by over 400 marble columns.
Contact
Téléphone: 97 793 46 75