Bibi-Xonim Masjidi, Uzbekistan

In Samarkand, there is a famous Bibi-Khanym Mosque, also known as the Tamerlane Mosque. It was built in 1404 and is distinguished by a chic design, the shrine is decorated with carved marble, artful paintings, and tiles. After the conquest of India, Tamerlane ordered to build in the city a smart mosque, which will not have the equal one in beauty universally. The founder has chosen the location of the mosque independently, for construction he attracted the best masters from Iran, India, the Golden Horde and Khwarezm.

After the construction was completed, Bibi-Khanym`s mosque was one of the largest in the world, 10,000 people could be accommodated in its yard at a time. The grand mosque Tamerlane named in honor of his beloved wife, however, according to one of the legends, the construction of the mosque began precisely by the order of the beautiful Bibi-Khanym who decided to give a gift to her husband who returned from next military campaign. The history of the construction of the mosque is very interesting, a huge architectural complex was built in just five years.

To accelerate the construction process, 99 elephants were brought from India, they were used to transport stones and other heavy loads. Another interesting symbol of the ancient mosque is the bazaar located near its walls, which was opened more than 600 years ago. As in the Middle Ages, today it continues to work, in this picturesque bazaar, you can always buy fresh fruits, sweets, and interesting souvenirs. The most beautiful mosque is accessible for visiting absolutely for everybody. The locals believe that this shrine can grant women, who visit it, health and happiness of motherhood. Next - Turk ve Islam Eserleri Muzesi