Bibi-Khanym Mosque

Bibi-Khanym Mosque, A Timurid Masterpiece. The Bibi-Khanym Mosque stands as one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring architectural complexes in Samarkand. Its vast scale and opulent decoration symbolized the wealth and power of Amir Timur (Tamerlane) and his empire. Constructed between 1399 and 1404, using the spoils of Timur’s campaign in India, it was named after Bibi-Khanym, the nickname of Saray Mulk Khanym, Timur’s senior wife. The complex features a grand congregational mosque with a monumental entrance (iwan), towering minarets, and a massive dome. Two smaller side mosques are also part of the design. However, Timur’s architectural vision exceeded the engineering capabilities of the time. The structure was too ambitious, and signs of deterioration appeared even before construction was complete. Work stopped in 1405 following Timur’s sudden death. Timur’s grandson, Ulugh Beg, is known to have used a monumental marble Quran stand within the mosque, on which the famous Quran of Caliph Uthman (Osman) was displayed during Friday prayers. The Bibi-Khanym Mosque remained in use until the 17th century, when the Tilla-Kari Mosque was built to replace it. Restoration efforts began in the 1970s as part of a broader campaign led by Uzbekistan’s first president, Islam Karimov, to revive the architectural legacy of the Timurid era.

The entrance was 75k. The mosque is under construction, however you can sightsee the inside square. It’s really beautiful and great to see. We enjoyed it 🥰

It looks fascinating from outside. But I don’t think it worths to pay both areas to enter 75k som. There are many shops inside and that is all. It is sad to see they turn here into shops. The grand main mosque, dedicated to Timur's wife. It was once considered one of the largest structures in the world. Legend has it that the architect fell in love with Bibi Khanym and wanted to leave his lips on it. This love story is the mosque's romantic legend.

You don’t have to pay to enter the courtyard. Unless you want a guided tour to learn about its history, you can get the best pictures and experience from outside. Definitely worth a look when visiting the Bozori.

Bibi Khanym Mosque is one of the most iconic and historic landmarks in Samarkand, originally built in the 15th century under the reign of Amir Temur. The grand entrance gate is impressive, featuring a striking blue dome and beautiful floral engravings that reflect classic Timurid architecture. The entry fee is 100,000 UZS, which is reasonable for such a historic monument. However, the site seems to be in need of better maintenance. The main mosque building is currently closed due to structural damage, and only two smaller side mosques are open to visitors. The entrance gate appears faded and slightly dirty, which gives a neglected feel to such a significant monument. It’s highly recommended that the authorities take proper measures to preserve and restore the site. Inside the complex, there is a small garden where visitors can sit and relax, offering a peaceful break during your visit. Despite some maintenance issues, the mosque remains a must-visit due to its historical and architectural value.

In the northeast of the city center of Samarkand stands what remains of one of the most beautiful and largest mosques in the Islamic world: the Bibi Khanym Mosque. On May 11, 1399, the foundation stone was laid, and in five years a mosque was built that was indeed unparalleled in the world. During those five years, Timur was mainly on the warpath and his wife Saray Mulk Khanym (a.k.a. Bibi Khanym) oversaw the progress of the works. Timur Lenk had his architects and craftsmen explore and stretch the boundaries of what was then architecturally possible, which did not benefit the structural stability of the mosque. On his return to Samarkand in 1404, Timur, dissatisfied with certain details and the pace of construction, immediately had things changed, especially the 41-meter-high dome. As a result, the first bricks began to fall from this dome after just a few years. In the almost two centuries that followed the death of Timur Lenk, the mosque was renovated and reinforced several times until Abdullah Khan II stopped work on the mosque at the end of the 16th century. This was the beginning of a long period of decay, weathering and plundering. Fortunately, the Soviets began extensive and long-term restorations in 1974, so that visitors can now enjoy this monumental building again. After passing the 35-meter-high pishtaq of the entrance, you enter the courtyard (64x76m), which used to be completely paved with marble. The two smaller domes on the sides tower proudly above the galleries and form the prelude to the main building with an equally enormous pishtaq and the hidden behind it, a 41 meter high turquoise dome. Although the Bibi Khanym mosque is actually a restored ruin, this is a "ruin" that still impresses and overwhelms. Don't miss it!

Even though I didn’t enter into the mosque, it’s beautiful to see from outside. It’s next to the bazaar, but there is a tranquil atmosphere. Very safe.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque is quite stunning. The huge arches and blue tiles are beautiful and it really gives a sense of Samarkand's history.