On October 30, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev arrived in Samarkand to attend the opening ceremony of the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference.

As per tradition, the visit began with a pilgrimage to the mausoleum of Imam Bukhari, where verses from the Quran and dua were recited.

The Head of State reviewed the final stage of construction and landscaping work at the Imam Bukhari Complex. Initiated by the President, the complex was rebuilt entirely to reflect the high spiritual authority and great scholarly legacy of the eminent compiler of hadiths, who holds a special place in the Islamic world. All necessary facilities have been created for pilgrims.

The complex’s area has been expanded to 44 hectares. It now includes a mausoleum, a mosque accommodating 10,000 worshippers, an administrative building, a museum, and entrance and exit iwans. Four minarets, each 75 meters high, give the ensemble a majestic appearance.

The President also reviewed the construction and creative work carried out in the new mosque.

Each time visiting Samarkand, the President reviewed the progress of construction and emphasized that the complex should become not merely a place of pilgrimage, but also a center of science, enlightenment, education, and spiritual guidance. The intention is that the great works, knowledge, and moral excellence of Imam Bukhari serve as an inspiring example, especially for the youth.

The new complex features an innovative museum showcasing the life and scholarly legacy of Imam Bukhari, recognized as the “Sultan of the Muhaddiths” in the Islamic world, and his contributions to Islamic enlightenment. The museum presents information about 25 prophets mentioned in the Quran, the genealogy of the Prophet Muhammad, his life in Makkah and Madinah, and the process of collecting and recording hadiths.

Construction is nearing completion around the shrine, with hotels and service facilities being built. The area will include one four-star hotel, two three-star hotels, and twenty-two family guesthouses.

The President instructed officials to ensure the effective operation of the complex, improve visitor facilities, and expand green spaces.

Following the visit, saplings were planted on the complex’s grounds as a symbol of goodwill and growth.

UzA