Restoration of Bibi Khanum Mosque to Begin with International Support

The restoration of Uzbekistan’s iconic Bibi Khanum Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Samarkand, is set to commence through a partnership between the Qatar Fund for Development and Uzbekistan’s Art and Culture Development Foundation, AKDN reported yesterday.

The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) will oversee the project, which aims to restore the mosque while creating jobs and training opportunities for local workers.

Originally built between 1399 and 1405 under Timur’s rule, the mosque symbolizes the grandeur of the Timurid Empire. Despite its historical significance, it has suffered from disrepair over the centuries. Recent efforts have stabilized the structure, and AKTC will now focus on restoring its distinctive turquoise domes and ornate mosaics using modern technology and traditional techniques.

This initiative not only aims to preserve an architectural treasure but also to enhance Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage and economic prospects, promoting tourism and community engagement for future generations.