Kalyan Mosque in Bukhara
Kalyan Mosque
The Kalyan Mosque, also known as Masjid-i Kalan, stands as a monumental testament to Islamic architecture in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Situated within the historic Po-i-Kalyan complex, the mosque is complemented by the iconic Kalyan Minaret and the Mir-i-Arab Madrasa, forming a significant religious ensemble in the city.
Historical Background:
The current structure of the Kalyan Mosque was completed in 1514 during the reign of the Shaybanid ruler Ubaydullah Khan. It was constructed to replace an earlier mosque that had been destroyed during Genghis Khan's invasion in 1220. The mosque has served as Bukhara's main congregational Friday mosque for over five centuries, symbolizing the city's prominence during the 16th century.
Architectural Features:
Covering an area of approximately 1.3 hectares (130 by 80 meters), the Kalyan Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Central Asia, surpassed only by the Bibi-Khanym Mosque in Samarkand and the Great Mosque of Herat in Afghanistan. Its design includes a vast open courtyard surrounded by a gallery of 288 domes resting on 208 pillars, creating a serene and expansive prayer space.
The main entrance is marked by a grand iwan (arched gateway) adorned with intricate tilework and inscriptions. Opposite the entrance, the mihrab (prayer niche) is crowned by a large blue dome, rising to a height of 30 meters, which dominates the Bukhara skyline. The mosque's exterior walls are decorated with exquisite mosaics and glazed bricks, showcasing the artistic achievements of the Timurid period.
Cultural Significance:
As the primary Friday mosque of Bukhara, the Kalyan Mosque has been a central place of worship and community gathering for centuries. Its enduring presence reflects the city's historical role as a hub of Islamic scholarship and culture. The mosque, along with the Po-i-Kalyan complex, is recognized as part of Bukhara's UNESCO World Heritage sites, attracting visitors and scholars interested in its architectural grandeur and historical importance.
Visitors to the Kalyan Mosque can experience its vast courtyard, admire the harmonious blend of architectural elements, and gain insight into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Bukhara.
Entrance fee: 1.5 USD
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