Mausoleum of Imam Bukhari, Samarkand
The mausoleum of Imam Bukhari, also known as the Imam Bukhari Complex, is located in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Imam Bukhari, whose full name is Muhammad ibn Ismail ibn Ibrahim ibn al-Mughira al-Jufi, was a prominent Islamic scholar and hadith collector who is best known for compiling the Sahih al-Bukhari, one of the most important books of hadith in Islam.
He was born in Bukhara on July 21, 810, and died in the village of Khartang (present-day Chelak district of Samarkand region), 25 km from Samarkand, where he was buried in 870. However, this place has been abandoned for centuries.
The mausoleum complex was built in the 16th century on the site where Imam Bukhari is believed to have been buried
It includes a mosque, a madrasa, and a large dome that covers the tomb of Imam Bukhari.
The complex was restored with the Independence of Uzbekistan. On April 29, 1997, a Decree of the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the celebration of the 1225th anniversary of the birth of Imam al-Bukhari according to the Hijra-lunar calendar” was adopted.
In November of the same year, the UNESCO General conference adopted a resolution on participation in 1998 in the celebration of the memorable date – the 1225th anniversary of the birth of the prominent Islamic scholar and hadith collector Ismail al-Bukhari.
The total allocated area of the monument is 10 hectares. The complex is adjacent to the Samarkand-Imam al-Bukhari highway (25 km).
It is also a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to learn more about the life and work of Imam Bukhari, as well as to experience the rich history and culture of the region.
The mausoleum complex is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate tilework, and is considered one of the most important cultural and religious sites in Uzbekistan
The main facade of the administrative building of the complex faces to the south. The entrance to the complex is made through three large carved gates of the arched structure. The main entrance through Darvaza-khana is built with an arched large terrace in the national style.
On the front part of the entrance portal, the text of the history of the construction of the complex is written in Arabic and Uzbek. At the entrance of the big Darvaza-khana, on the right, there are administrative and other rooms. The mausoleum of Imam al-Bukhari is located on the central axis of the complex.
It is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan
This cube-shaped structure is topped by a seventeen-meter dome. The walls are decorated with light green, blue, white glazed tiles, marble, onyx and granite. On the right, under the light blue onyx tombstone (Sagan) of the upper floor, there is the grave of al-Bukhari, covered with marble.
On the left side of the courtyard there is a mosque with an area of 786 sq. m. The total area of peshayvans is 214 sq.m. 1500 worshippers can pray in the mosque at the same time.
Stunning Architecture
The complex is not only known for its important cultural and religious significance, but also for its stunning architecture and beautiful landscaping.
Each building of the complex is designed with intricate details, such as colorful tilework, geometric patterns, and calligraphy, that reflect the region’s rich cultural and artistic traditions.
Landscaping
The landscaping around the complex is also carefully designed and maintained. There are gardens filled with lush greenery, flowers, and fountains that create a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Visitors can stroll around the gardens and enjoy the beautiful surroundings while learning about the history and significance of the complex.
Overall, the combination of stunning architecture and beautiful landscaping makes the Imam Bukhari Complex a unique and unforgettable destination for visitors from around the world. It is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan and the importance of preserving and celebrating it for future generations.
