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Khazrati Imam Complex
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historical-site
The Khazrati Imam Complex is the spiritual heart of Tashkent and houses some of the most significant religious treasures in Uzbekistan. The complex was established in honor of Abu Bakr Muhammad al-Kaffal al-Shashi, a 10th-century scholar and poet who is revered as the patron saint of the city. The site features several magnificent structures, including the Barak-Khan Madrasah, the Tilla-Sheikh Mosque, and the Mausoleum of Khazrati Imam. The architectural centerpiece is the Muyi Mubarak Madrasah, which contains a library housing the famous Uthman Quran. This 7th-century manuscript is widely regarded as one of the oldest surviving copies of the Quran in the world, written on gazelle-skin parchment. In 2007 and 2008, the entire complex underwent a major renovation and was expanded with the addition of a new grand congregational mosque featuring two 54-meter-high minarets. Today, the complex serves as a serene sanctuary for prayer and a major destination for cultural tourism.
- Location: Uzbekistan
- Top sights: Chigatay Gate · Hiyobon tepa · Chigatay Aktepa
- Nearby: Yangiyul (23 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 2 | 9 | 15 | 22 | 28 | 30 | 29 | 22 | 14 | 6 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 43 | 57 | 60 | 53 | 29 | 12 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 24 | 50 | 55 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Khazrati Imam Complex in Tashkent is a vast religious ensemble open daily to visitors. The library housing the world's oldest Quran is typically accessible at specific times, often with a guided tour.
Typical hours
The complex is typically open from morning until evening prayer, with mosques and mausoleums having their own schedules. The library usually has fixed hours that may vary on holidays.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the grounds, but in the library usually without flash. Respect quiet in prayer rooms and ask permission before photographing worshippers.
Time needed
For a thorough tour including the library and mosques, allow two to three hours. If you want to absorb all details, you can easily spend half a day here.
Combine with
The complex is in the old town of Tashkent and combines well with the nearby Chorsu Bazaar. Independence Square and the Amir Timur Museum are also not far.
Getting there
Khazrati Imam Complex is accessible by metro (Chilonzor or Gʻafur Gʻulom station) and then on foot. Taxis are a convenient alternative, especially from the city center.
Insider tip
Plan your visit for a weekday morning when it's less crowded. In the library you may need to leave your bag and put on shoe covers - this is standard procedure.
Geography
Facts
- The Muyi Mubarak Madrasah houses the 7th-century Uthman Quran.
- The complex is named after Tashkent's first imam, Kaffal al-Shashi.
- The Barak-Khan Madrasah was built in the 16th century by the Shaybanid dynasty.
- The two modern minarets on the site stand at a height of 54 meters.
- The library contains an archive of over 20,000 ancient books and manuscripts.
- The entire square was extensively renovated and redesigned in 2007-2008.
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Sights in the town Khazrati Imam Complex (16)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Hazrati Imam complex?
It is the religious center of Tashkent with beautiful mosques and a library housing the oldest Quran.
Can you enter the mosques?
Tourists may visit the grounds; for interiors, strict rules often apply for worshipers.
Do I have to pay for entry?
The grounds are free to access; there is a small fee to visit the Quran exhibition.
How long should I plan for?
About 1 to 2 hours is enough to leisurely view all the buildings and the grounds.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, shoulders and knees should be covered as it is a religious site.
Khazrati Imam Complex: where is it located?
Khazrati Imam Complex is located in Uzbekistan.
Khazrati Imam Complex: what is there to see?
Highlights include Chigatay Gate, Hiyobon tepa, Chigatay Aktepa.
Khazrati Imam Complex: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Khazrati Imam Complex: why is it worth visiting?
The Khazrati Imam Complex is the spiritual heart of Tashkent and houses some of the most significant religious treasures in Uzbekistan.
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History & landmarks
Kukeldash Madrasah
A 16th-century Islamic school located near the Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent.
Minor Mosque
A relatively new mosque built entirely of white marble, located on the banks of a canal in Tashkent.
Navoi Theater
The national opera and ballet theater is named after the poet Alisher Navoi and boasts impressive classical architecture.
Amir Timur Museum
The museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of the conqueror Timur, standing out with its blue dome.
Tashkent TV Tower
At 375 meters high, it is the tallest structure in Uzbekistan and offers a spectacular view.
More places
Chorsu Bazaar
This traditional bazaar in the old town of Tashkent is covered by a striking blue dome.
Magic City Park
A brand-new, gigantic family park in Tashkent featuring replicas of world-famous landmarks and modern attractions.
Alisher Navoi National Park
A centrally located city park dedicated to the famous poet, featuring large artificial lakes.
Monument of Courage
This monument commemorates the devastating earthquake of 1966 and the rebuilding of the city by its brave residents.
Amir Timur Square
A star-shaped park and square in the center of Tashkent, surrounding a famous equestrian statue of the conqueror.
Tashkentland
One of the most well-known amusement parks in Uzbekistan, featuring roller coasters, water slides, and family rides.
Japanese Garden Tashkent
A peaceful retreat featuring traditional landscape architecture, koi ponds, and an authentic tea ceremony hut.
Tashkent Eco Park
A modern, eco-friendly park without mechanical rides, focused on sports activities and nature walks.