News

Within the framework of the 13th meeting of the Islamic Heritage Committee held in Tashkent with the participation of the ICESCO delegation, guests became closely acquainted with the activities of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan. Holograms, virtual tours, coins from the era of Alexander the Great, ancient chess pieces discovered in Dalvarzintepa, and Ulugh Beg’s coordinates of 1018 stars — all left a strong impression on the visitors. Representatives of the delegation described the Center as “a major achievement for the entire Islamic world.”

Detailed information was provided about the exhibitions covering the historical development from the pre-Islamic period, beginning with the earliest cultural layers in Central Asia, through the First and Second Renaissance periods, up to modern Uzbekistan. Holographic presentations dedicated to the pre-Islamic era, visual installations reflecting ancient ways of life, the Kampirtepa archaeological site, coins from the 4th century BCE dating back to the time of Alexander the Great, and the chigir irrigation device used in the Khorezm civilization attracted significant interest from the guests. Ancient chess pieces from the 2nd–3rd centuries discovered in Dalvarzintepa, Sogdian garments, and a blacksmith workshop installation were also at the center of attention. These exhibits clearly demonstrate how deeply rooted civilization and scientific thought are in Central Asia.

In the First Renaissance exhibition, through the Wall of Civilizations and Discoveries, interactive touch panels presented medical information of Abu Ali ibn Sina, while in the Second Renaissance section, Amir Temur’s chess, the Mirzo Ulugh Beg Observatory, and his scientific legacy related to determining the coordinates of 1018 stars left a special impression on the guests. According to members of the delegation, the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan is becoming a prestigious platform serving international scientific dialogue, heritage preservation, and the development of cultural cooperation.

According to Maryam Gaffar-Zada, Assistant Director of ICESCO’s Baku regional office, this Center, initiated by the President of Uzbekistan, is a major achievement for the entire Islamic world.

Maryam Gaffar-Zada, Assistant Director of ICESCO’s Baku Regional Office:

The first time I came, the building was still under construction. Even then, I felt how large-scale and significant this project would be. Later, I came with my family. Today, we visited with the ICESCO delegation. Each time I discover a new meaning and a new historical layer here. This Center is a major achievement for the entire Islamic world. It presents Islamic civilization not only from a religious perspective, but also from the viewpoints of science, mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and culture. It proves that this land has made a tremendous contribution to the development of world civilization.

She also highly praised the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan, emphasizing that this decision was an important step in presenting Islamic heritage on a global scale.

Bilal Chebbi, Director of Programs at the ICESCO Heritage Center:

I have visited many museums and cultural centers around the world. However, the presentation style here deserves special attention. The exhibits are not merely displayed — they tell a specific story. A visitor here does not remain just a spectator but becomes a participant in a historical journey. Information is provided in 10 languages, along with virtual tours and holograms — all of which have elevated the exhibition to a global level. This Center is a model project not only for Uzbekistan but for the entire Islamic world.

Eisa Yusuf, Director-General of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority:

Seeing the dirhams minted in Shosh and Samarkand here was very moving for me. This reflects not only economic relations but also cultural exchange. Some Islamic artifacts discovered in our region are also connected with the materials presented in the Center’s exhibition.

Muhammad Elvayl, Representative of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman:

This is my first visit to Uzbekistan. The organization here, the exhibition, and the professional approach of the staff truly impressed me. Treating history with such respect is extremely important, because a nation that does not know its past cannot build its future. Honestly, everything here is very unique and beautiful. Every symbol and exhibit has its own distinct character. What particularly caught my attention were the letters sent by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to various lands. I saw that one of them was addressed to my country. This was very touching and joyful. Here, not only Uzbekistan’s history but Islamic history and civilization from across the world are presented. ICESCO plays an important role in conveying information about historical and archaeological sites in Uzbekistan to the world. As is known, one of ICESCO’s main goals is to introduce the history and cultural heritage of countries to the global community through museums, media, and other platforms. From this perspective, cooperation is highly important in presenting the history of Uzbekistan and its beautiful sites to the world.

Ndiyay Aliu, Head of the Department for Museums and Intangible Cultural Heritage:

The Center has very comprehensive content. It provides detailed information about the civilization of Uzbekistan, its history, past dynasties and rulers, writing culture, archaeology, and many other fields. Through the exhibitions presented here, one can gain an understanding not only of Uzbekistan’s past and history but also of its future. The building itself is a true example of cultural heritage, constructed for future generations and intended to serve for many years. The exhibition I liked most was the section dedicated to religious scholars and Islamic personalities. For example, in Senegal — where the majority of the population is Muslim — we are familiar with Islam and its scholars. I had heard the name of Imam Bukhari, but I did not know he was born in this land. Through today’s exhibition, I received detailed information about who Imam Bukhari was, where he was born, what he accomplished, and where he grew up. I really appreciated this and was deeply impressed.

The visit of the ICESCO delegation once again confirmed the international prestige of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan. Today, the Center plays an important role in Uzbekistan’s cultural diplomacy and is recognized as a prestigious scientific and educational institution that unites the shared heritage of the Islamic world.