Mosques in Tashkent
Tashkent is one of the most attractive destinations for tourists. The city is home to many beautiful places with unique landmarks. These sites are popular among local residents. Tashkent’s people are considered deeply devout. Today, the majority of the city’s men attend mosques. Below is the most comprehensive selection of the most beautiful and popular mosques in Tashkent.
«Минор»
Considered a new architectural landmark of the city. It opened in 2014 on the eve of the Kurban Hayit holiday. Almost immediately after the grand opening, one of the majestic architectural structures on the banks of the Anhor canal became an important spiritual center in the country. The mosque can accommodate over 2,500 worshippers simultaneously.
Built within the canons of modern Eastern architecture, it features an ancient pure white marble finish, which is why its second name is the "White Mosque".
The architectural and religious complex has 2 floors for prayers, several terraces, many carved wooden columns, and an inner courtyard. The interior decoration reflects the novelty of the structure. This conclusion can be drawn by examining the modern construction and finishing materials. Otherwise, inside there is classic carving on clay gypsum, typical of any Central Asian mosque. There are numerous frescoes with a mihrab — a niche indicating the direction of Mecca. This last element, by the way, is adorned with prayers from the Quran and excerpts from the sermons of the Prophet Muhammad. The Tashkent mihrab is an exact replica of the one located in Samarkand.
Built within the canons of modern Eastern architecture, it features an ancient pure white marble finish, which is why its second name is the "White Mosque".
The architectural and religious complex has 2 floors for prayers, several terraces, many carved wooden columns, and an inner courtyard. The interior decoration reflects the novelty of the structure. This conclusion can be drawn by examining the modern construction and finishing materials. Otherwise, inside there is classic carving on clay gypsum, typical of any Central Asian mosque. There are numerous frescoes with a mihrab — a niche indicating the direction of Mecca. This last element, by the way, is adorned with prayers from the Quran and excerpts from the sermons of the Prophet Muhammad. The Tashkent mihrab is an exact replica of the one located in Samarkand.
Kukcha with the Mausoleum of Sheikh Zayniddin"
In the old part of the capital, in the Kukcha mahalla, there is a mosque named after the distinguished Sufi scholar Sheikh Zayniddin. His mausoleum is located within the religious complex. Locally, it is referred to as Kukcha due to its location. The mosque can accommodate up to 6,000 worshippers simultaneously.
Sheikh Zayniddin was an outstanding religious figure born in 1164. Throughout his life, he preached the Sufi Islamic doctrine and was the founder of the Sufi order of Shahabuddin Suhrawardi. The mausoleum of this Sufi mentor was erected by believers at the end of the 14th century, by the order of Tamerlane himself. Today, Kukcha and its adjacent mausoleum are regarded as one of the most beautiful Islamic pilgrimage centers. In 2011, the city administration carried out a large-scale renovation, incorporating calligraphic art, wood carving, and ganch (plasterwork) in the decoration of the site.
Sheikh Zayniddin was an outstanding religious figure born in 1164. Throughout his life, he preached the Sufi Islamic doctrine and was the founder of the Sufi order of Shahabuddin Suhrawardi. The mausoleum of this Sufi mentor was erected by believers at the end of the 14th century, by the order of Tamerlane himself. Today, Kukcha and its adjacent mausoleum are regarded as one of the most beautiful Islamic pilgrimage centers. In 2011, the city administration carried out a large-scale renovation, incorporating calligraphic art, wood carving, and ganch (plasterwork) in the decoration of the site.
«Ислом-ота»
In the oldest Uzbek mosque with a 300-year history, previously named Zhurabek, a fire occurred in 2015. The city administration allocated funds for the restoration of the site, and after reconstruction, it was named after the country’s president – Islam Karimov. The prayer complex can accommodate up to 10,000 people simultaneously.
Previously, the building could hold no more than 5,000 people. It is adorned with a large celestial dome, a tall central minaret, and a complex of four smaller minarets at the corners. It also houses a library where rare books with original manuscripts are kept.
Previously, the building could hold no more than 5,000 people. It is adorned with a large celestial dome, a tall central minaret, and a complex of four smaller minarets at the corners. It also houses a library where rare books with original manuscripts are kept.
«Олтинтепа»
One of the city's gems, renovated in 2016. While previously the hall could accommodate no more than 1,000 people, today up to 2,300 worshippers can pray there. The architectural structure is crafted in the finest traditions of Uzbek architecture.
The mosque features a majestic blue dome that captivates with its beauty. Inside, there is a large hall with an inner courtyard.
The mosque features a majestic blue dome that captivates with its beauty. Inside, there is a large hall with an inner courtyard.
«Думбирабод»
One of the popular religious sites in the Chilanzar district of the city. It got its name from the location — the Dumbiraobod neighborhood. It was built in 1992 through the joint efforts of city residents. In 2012, the Islamic pilgrimage site was renovated. Today, it can be visited at the address: Chilanzar area, Dumbiraobod mahalla, 4th Dumbiraobod dead-end, house 23.
The southern part of Tashkent, where one of the oldest neighborhoods lies, has a long history.
In ancient times, there were the Konkus with Shirin and Darkhan canals here. At certain periods, these territories were developed by residents of neighboring mahallas — "Beshagacha," "Tulistan," and "Chakara." They built large houses and plantations nearby.
Old locals say that the name Dumbiraobod originated from a story. It is believed that there was a butcher named Mirsoat in the guzars. He ran a meat shop for many years. When he slaughtered livestock, his developmentally challenged son played the dombra. Upon hearing the sounds, locals would head to the neighborhood for meat cuts. The butcher himself resembled a drum. Probably, the district, and later the mosque, received their names because of this.
The southern part of Tashkent, where one of the oldest neighborhoods lies, has a long history.
In ancient times, there were the Konkus with Shirin and Darkhan canals here. At certain periods, these territories were developed by residents of neighboring mahallas — "Beshagacha," "Tulistan," and "Chakara." They built large houses and plantations nearby.
Old locals say that the name Dumbiraobod originated from a story. It is believed that there was a butcher named Mirsoat in the guzars. He ran a meat shop for many years. When he slaughtered livestock, his developmentally challenged son played the dombra. Upon hearing the sounds, locals would head to the neighborhood for meat cuts. The butcher himself resembled a drum. Probably, the district, and later the mosque, received their names because of this.
«Носирхон-ота»
The mosque, located next to a bazaar dating back to the 19th century, was built in 1990 and opened a few years later. It is named after one of the prominent figures of Islam – Nosirkhon-Tura. He lived in the 20th century with his family in the mahalla and owned a large estate. According to local residents, Nosirkhon-Tura and his family were respected in the area. They put great effort into maintaining the beauty and grandeur of the mosque.
«Mirza Yusuf»
The restored mosque is located in the central part of the capital: Badamzar, on Bogishamol Street. Around it are many equally prominent landmarks, including the botanical garden with the former VDNH. The mosque is an active pilgrimage site for Tashkent residents and has undergone changes in its purpose since the 1880s. During the revolutionary events, it served as a dormitory for working residents. Today, it is actively used by locals for Friday prayers and during all festive occasions. However, visiting hours are limited.
It was originally built of wood. Later, marble inserts and brick finishing appeared on the facades. Over time, the front part of the structure was completely altered: the wooden stairs were repaired because the original was destroyed. The main architectural feature was preserved — the traditional wood carving. The wood carving also maintains a connection to traditions formed over centuries.
The exterior appearance, however, has improved positively thanks to the arrival of the new imam — Abdukadir Mardanovich Khaydarov. He transformed the look, replaced the facades, and added air conditioning inside the prayer halls for comfort. Today, it boasts a renovated attractive exterior and interior decoration. The facade features carved elements, brick, and marble inserts. Inside, there is Arabic ceiling calligraphy with expensive red carpets and Arabic patterned windows. The hall accommodates up to 5,000 worshippers.
It was originally built of wood. Later, marble inserts and brick finishing appeared on the facades. Over time, the front part of the structure was completely altered: the wooden stairs were repaired because the original was destroyed. The main architectural feature was preserved — the traditional wood carving. The wood carving also maintains a connection to traditions formed over centuries.
The exterior appearance, however, has improved positively thanks to the arrival of the new imam — Abdukadir Mardanovich Khaydarov. He transformed the look, replaced the facades, and added air conditioning inside the prayer halls for comfort. Today, it boasts a renovated attractive exterior and interior decoration. The facade features carved elements, brick, and marble inserts. Inside, there is Arabic ceiling calligraphy with expensive red carpets and Arabic patterned windows. The hall accommodates up to 5,000 worshippers.
«To'xtaboy»
One of the oldest mosques located near the Chagatay gates of the capital. Built in 1908 using a unique method. During the construction of the prayer complex, not the traditional red or brown bricks commonly used for Muslim buildings were employed, but a new type of white brick for that period. The mosque was founded by the merchant Tukhtaboy. He was the son of a wealthy man named Alimboy, who lived near the Chagatay gates and decided to establish the religious site there.
According to legend, the merchant, while sending goods to Russia by railway, promised that if his deal was successful, he would dedicate the profits to building the mosque. Most likely, the deal was successful, and he erected this monumental structure.
Local accounts say that for several months, workers labored day and night for fair pay to construct the religious complex. The merchant rewarded them generously, believing that no participant in this great endeavor should be left unrewarded. Moreover, he ensured that the funds were spent solely for the benefit of the project.
As a result, not a single educational building of the Muslim complex along with the mosque was destroyed for a significant period. During World War II, Tukhtaboy served as a military garrison, then a school, and even a dishware storage. When Uzbekistan gained independence, in 1989 it regained its status as a religious site and was returned to worshippers for prayers.
According to legend, the merchant, while sending goods to Russia by railway, promised that if his deal was successful, he would dedicate the profits to building the mosque. Most likely, the deal was successful, and he erected this monumental structure.
Local accounts say that for several months, workers labored day and night for fair pay to construct the religious complex. The merchant rewarded them generously, believing that no participant in this great endeavor should be left unrewarded. Moreover, he ensured that the funds were spent solely for the benefit of the project.
As a result, not a single educational building of the Muslim complex along with the mosque was destroyed for a significant period. During World War II, Tukhtaboy served as a military garrison, then a school, and even a dishware storage. When Uzbekistan gained independence, in 1989 it regained its status as a religious site and was returned to worshippers for prayers.
«Охун Гузар в Алмазарском районе»
Located in the modern Sebzar district. Locals used to call it by another name: Laylakkundi, which translates to "arrival of storks." During the construction of the religious building, workers saw storks on the main dome, which was considered a good omen. The main structure of the mosque was built in 1775 by local craftsmen. At the entrance, another construction date can be seen – 1850. This latter date likely marks the time of the building's renovation.
An interesting fact was revealed by researchers of the toponym of this religious site. According to their data, in Uzbek, Okhun Guzar means "place of deer." According to other sources, Okhun Guzar is the blacksmiths' quarter. It is believed that many forges, famous throughout Uzbekistan, were located here.
An interesting fact was revealed by researchers of the toponym of this religious site. According to their data, in Uzbek, Okhun Guzar means "place of deer." According to other sources, Okhun Guzar is the blacksmiths' quarter. It is believed that many forges, famous throughout Uzbekistan, were located here.
«Ходжа Ахрар Вали»
Like the Kukeldash madrasa, it is part of the historical and cultural architectural ensemble of Tashkent near the Chorsu bazaar. It is a unique, singular structure that represents the architecture of the urban Friday courtyard mosque, common in Central Asia during the Middle Ages. The central building has the shape of a cube covered with a dome and openings. On the eastern facade, there is an arch framed by pointed Gothic detailing. The building resembles a rectangle from above, ending with an impressive structure on the west side.
It was destroyed by an earthquake in 1868. Twenty years later, Russian Emperor Alexander III helped rebuild and restore it. During the Soviet era, various government organizations occupied the mosque building, including a cinema managed by the Ministry of Education. In 1990, the mosque was renovated again, during which the building was completely demolished and rebuilt using modern materials. Construction and restoration were completed in 2003.
It was destroyed by an earthquake in 1868. Twenty years later, Russian Emperor Alexander III helped rebuild and restore it. During the Soviet era, various government organizations occupied the mosque building, including a cinema managed by the Ministry of Education. In 1990, the mosque was renovated again, during which the building was completely demolished and rebuilt using modern materials. Construction and restoration were completed in 2003.
«Намазгох»
This is part of the famous Tashkent Islamic center – Hast Imam Square. This beautiful architectural monument represents a unique blend of Islamic and Central Asian architectural styles, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable country.
In the past, the mosque was part of a suburban complex where many residents gathered during major religious holidays. Today, it is an active mosque located next to the mausoleum of Abu Bakr Muhammad Kaffal Shashi — one of the revered imams in Tashkent, after whom the adjacent square is named.
Founded in 1865, it was the last structure built by the builders. Between 1845 and 1865, a mausoleum and several madrasahs were constructed on the site. For several centuries after its construction, it became the largest pilgrimage center and served as an indispensable place for prayers during the main Muslim religious holidays. Since 1971, the Tashkent Islamic Institute has operated within it.
After the mosque’s foundation, the Russo-Kokand war began. The city was captured by Russian troops led by Lieutenant Colonel Mikhail Chernyaev. Despite the military occupation, the mosque was not destroyed. Therefore, local residents always came for festive and Friday prayers. Until the 1917 Revolution, it remained a place of worship. Afterwards, it was completely destroyed and looted. It was only restored in 1970. The construction process was supervised by Sheikh Ziyavuddinhan ibn Eshon Babakhan. In 1971, he petitioned the authorities to allow him to open the institute. Permission was granted, and from that moment the educational institution was established. The institute was formed based on the Imam-Khatib Qualification Improvement Courses. During the Soviet era, it was the only institution where mentors trained future imams to serve in the European part of the country. After the USSR dissolved, the educational building became the Tashkent Islamic Institute. It continues to operate today. Since 2000, graduates receive bachelor’s degrees. The institute trains not only imams and Islamic scholars but also Arabic language teachers. Students gain knowledge in religious sciences, political science, history of religions, ecology, calligraphy, and rhetoric. Classes are conducted in Uzbek and Arabic.
It is believed that the Prophet Muhammad’s golden hair is kept here, not in the Tilla Sheikh Mosque. This legend is popular, attracting both tourists and pilgrims from all over the world. Every year, millions of devout people come to this sacred site to personally listen to the holy hadiths and connect with history.
In the past, the mosque was part of a suburban complex where many residents gathered during major religious holidays. Today, it is an active mosque located next to the mausoleum of Abu Bakr Muhammad Kaffal Shashi — one of the revered imams in Tashkent, after whom the adjacent square is named.
Founded in 1865, it was the last structure built by the builders. Between 1845 and 1865, a mausoleum and several madrasahs were constructed on the site. For several centuries after its construction, it became the largest pilgrimage center and served as an indispensable place for prayers during the main Muslim religious holidays. Since 1971, the Tashkent Islamic Institute has operated within it.
After the mosque’s foundation, the Russo-Kokand war began. The city was captured by Russian troops led by Lieutenant Colonel Mikhail Chernyaev. Despite the military occupation, the mosque was not destroyed. Therefore, local residents always came for festive and Friday prayers. Until the 1917 Revolution, it remained a place of worship. Afterwards, it was completely destroyed and looted. It was only restored in 1970. The construction process was supervised by Sheikh Ziyavuddinhan ibn Eshon Babakhan. In 1971, he petitioned the authorities to allow him to open the institute. Permission was granted, and from that moment the educational institution was established. The institute was formed based on the Imam-Khatib Qualification Improvement Courses. During the Soviet era, it was the only institution where mentors trained future imams to serve in the European part of the country. After the USSR dissolved, the educational building became the Tashkent Islamic Institute. It continues to operate today. Since 2000, graduates receive bachelor’s degrees. The institute trains not only imams and Islamic scholars but also Arabic language teachers. Students gain knowledge in religious sciences, political science, history of religions, ecology, calligraphy, and rhetoric. Classes are conducted in Uzbek and Arabic.
It is believed that the Prophet Muhammad’s golden hair is kept here, not in the Tilla Sheikh Mosque. This legend is popular, attracting both tourists and pilgrims from all over the world. Every year, millions of devout people come to this sacred site to personally listen to the holy hadiths and connect with history.
«Тилля-Шейха»
The mosque appeared at the end of the 19th century. It is part of the Hazrat Imam historical and architectural ensemble. Located near the Barak-Khan madrasa, it is considered active today. Visitors can explore it independently or as part of a guided tour. The site is situated on Karasaray Street in the Olmazor district of the city.
The religious site cannot be called the largest in size, but it is recognized as a significant Islamic urban landmark. In the past, Tillya-Sheikh was the main mosque in the city. It was originally built by order of the wealthy Khan Mirza Kushbegi, who also founded three other mosques in the city. The devout was renowned as a righteous, faithful, well-educated, and compassionate Muslim. The name of the mosque literally translates as "Mosque of the Golden Sheikh".
Due to a major earthquake in 1960, the mosque building was severely damaged. It was restored in the 2000s. Thanks to this renovation, craftsmen managed to preserve the original appearance of the structure. At the same time, the area around the mosque was landscaped.
The architectural and historical complex of the mosque includes a winter building with a summer courtyard and an auxiliary annex. The pilgrimage site itself has an attached iwan. This is a domed gallery where worshippers can pray during the summer. It features 12 domes and is equipped with two side minarets. Previously, these minarets served both their direct purpose and acted as beacons for merchant caravans. Inside the minarets are spiral staircases for the clergy.
Inside, there is an atmosphere of calm and devotional submission. The prayer hall is square-shaped and separated from the entrance by partitions. The room is intended for winter prayers. The interior decoration impresses both locals and visitors. A distinguishing feature from other mosques is the artistic ceiling painting and the classic patterned plaster lattice. The latter features a series of intricate panels. Also inside the mosque is a high stepped pulpit where the imam ascends to recite prayers from the Quran during namaz. The mihrab is a wall niche indicating the direction of the main holy city for Muslims. The mosque is also adorned with a number of mosaic details and a blue complex of domes and minarets.
Nearby is the Mui Mubarak educational building. Today, it serves as a museum and library housing a collection of ancient books. One of the halls contains a rare edition of the Quran. It preserves particles of the blood of the Prophet Muhammad’s son-in-law. According to ancient tradition, a hair of Muhammad is kept within the library walls. This is a sacred Muslim relic. The relic is not accessible to worshippers, which has given rise to many mysteries and superstitions.
Nearby are souvenir shops, and local vendors craft various artisanal goods. There is also a recreational area with benches for resting. When night falls on the city, the mosque is beautifully illuminated, making the site very photogenic.
The religious site cannot be called the largest in size, but it is recognized as a significant Islamic urban landmark. In the past, Tillya-Sheikh was the main mosque in the city. It was originally built by order of the wealthy Khan Mirza Kushbegi, who also founded three other mosques in the city. The devout was renowned as a righteous, faithful, well-educated, and compassionate Muslim. The name of the mosque literally translates as "Mosque of the Golden Sheikh".
Due to a major earthquake in 1960, the mosque building was severely damaged. It was restored in the 2000s. Thanks to this renovation, craftsmen managed to preserve the original appearance of the structure. At the same time, the area around the mosque was landscaped.
The architectural and historical complex of the mosque includes a winter building with a summer courtyard and an auxiliary annex. The pilgrimage site itself has an attached iwan. This is a domed gallery where worshippers can pray during the summer. It features 12 domes and is equipped with two side minarets. Previously, these minarets served both their direct purpose and acted as beacons for merchant caravans. Inside the minarets are spiral staircases for the clergy.
Inside, there is an atmosphere of calm and devotional submission. The prayer hall is square-shaped and separated from the entrance by partitions. The room is intended for winter prayers. The interior decoration impresses both locals and visitors. A distinguishing feature from other mosques is the artistic ceiling painting and the classic patterned plaster lattice. The latter features a series of intricate panels. Also inside the mosque is a high stepped pulpit where the imam ascends to recite prayers from the Quran during namaz. The mihrab is a wall niche indicating the direction of the main holy city for Muslims. The mosque is also adorned with a number of mosaic details and a blue complex of domes and minarets.
Nearby is the Mui Mubarak educational building. Today, it serves as a museum and library housing a collection of ancient books. One of the halls contains a rare edition of the Quran. It preserves particles of the blood of the Prophet Muhammad’s son-in-law. According to ancient tradition, a hair of Muhammad is kept within the library walls. This is a sacred Muslim relic. The relic is not accessible to worshippers, which has given rise to many mysteries and superstitions.
Nearby are souvenir shops, and local vendors craft various artisanal goods. There is also a recreational area with benches for resting. When night falls on the city, the mosque is beautifully illuminated, making the site very photogenic.
«Сирож Солих»
A young place of worship located in the Almazar district. The mosque, built in 2021, is situated at 3rd Karakamysh Street, house 21A. The construction of this architectural site took several years and was carried out through the voluntary labor (hashar) of major merchants. According to information from the city administration, the project was initially planned in the 1990s with funds from Sirojiddin Salih; however, he was unable to complete it due to political repression during the post-Soviet period.
Siroj Solih spans 2,000 square meters and accommodates up to 4,500 people simultaneously. It harmoniously blends into the national cultural context. There is a prayer hall for women with a separate restroom for them. The main khanaqah has several floors. Additionally, the complex includes a basement with a hall for ceremonial events and scientific-religious conferences.
Siroj Solih spans 2,000 square meters and accommodates up to 4,500 people simultaneously. It harmoniously blends into the national cultural context. There is a prayer hall for women with a separate restroom for them. The main khanaqah has several floors. Additionally, the complex includes a basement with a hall for ceremonial events and scientific-religious conferences.
«Соборная мечеть Абдуллах ибн Масъуд»
This is one of the structures that leaves no one indifferent who has ever stepped onto its spacious grounds. This historical monument, located in the Uchtepa district, Hamdusta quarter, on Lutfi Street, is considered not only a symbol of faith and culture but also a vivid example of Uzbek architecture and construction.
Abdullah ibn Mas'ud is a place where people from different parts of the world come together for prayer. It is adorned with exquisite Arabic patterns and unique Uzbek carved details that captivate visitors. The majestic domes and minarets emphasize the importance and significance of this sacred site.
Abdullah ibn Mas'ud is a place where people from different parts of the world come together for prayer. It is adorned with exquisite Arabic patterns and unique Uzbek carved details that captivate visitors. The majestic domes and minarets emphasize the importance and significance of this sacred site.
«Хасанхон Кори»
A historic religious symbol located in the Chilanzar district. Previously, the 2022 building was narrow, inconvenient, and posed difficulties for visitors. After reconstruction, it acquired an unusual appearance for a religious structure, becoming a high-tech temple. It was built with the necessary conditions in mind, taking into account the needs of worshippers. For this purpose, craftsmen used modern materials. While the temple previously accommodated no more than 1,000 people, today the mosque can hold 4,500 worshippers during Friday and festive prayers.
«Ibrahim-Ata Mausoleum»
One of the ancient pilgrimage sites, built in 1789. Today, it stands as one of the key landmarks that give the city its unique character. Its beauty and grandeur amaze and inspire everyone who comes to pray. Magnificent carpets, hanging chandeliers, and luxurious Quran storage chests create a special atmosphere of reverence and tranquility. Located in the central part of the Marmaris district, adjacent to the Central Bazaar. It features one of the tallest minarets in the city.