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The Washington Post article describes the Islamic Civilization Center opened in Tashkent as a major international project showcasing the rich intellectual and cultural heritage of Central Asia. It emphasizes that this institution serves as a modern scientific and educational hub revealing the role of Islamic civilization in the development of global science and culture.

A new stage in celebrating Central Asia’s intellectual legacy is beginning in Tashkent. This initiative once again highlights the region’s significant contribution to the advancement of world science.

For centuries, the Silk Road was not only a trade route but also a corridor for the exchange of ideas, culture, and scientific discoveries. Much of this heritage is linked to cities located in present-day Uzbekistan. Today, this tradition continues with the opening of the Islamic Civilization Center in Tashkent. Covering 10 hectares, the complex honors the region’s rich Islamic culture, architectural heritage, and scientific achievements.

Reviving a Glorious Legacy

At the heart of the Center’s exhibition stands one of the most sacred and rare relics of the Islamic world — the Uthman Qur’an. Dating back to the 7th century, this manuscript is one of the oldest surviving copies of the Qur’an and is included in UNESCO’s “Memory of the World” Register. The exhibition also features a fragment of the Kiswah—the silk covering of the Kaaba in Mecca.

These priceless exhibits are presented alongside more than 2,000 manuscripts and historical artifacts repatriated to the homeland at the initiative of the President. Leading auction houses such as Sotheby’s and Christie’s, along with museums, galleries, and private collectors, played a significant role in assembling this collection.

The exhibitions are organized around the theme “Civilizations – Personalities – Discoveries,” covering the period from pre-Islamic times through the First and Second Renaissances of Central Asia, and concluding with the section “New Uzbekistan – The Foundation of a New Renaissance.”

One of the key highlights is the “Gallery of Great Figures,” where scholars who made outstanding contributions to world civilization are honored through micromosaic artworks. Among them are Al-Khwarizmi, the founder of algebra; Ibn Sina, renowned for his medical encyclopedia; and Mirzo Ulugbek, famous for his astronomical tables.

A Bridge for Dialogue and Discovery

The Center is built in the style of Timurid architecture and was created based on the vision of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Its four grand portals symbolize the regions of Uzbekistan, while the facades are adorned with intricate patterns and calligraphy.

The interior is enriched with modern solutions: multimedia technologies, AI-based interactive installations, and 3D reconstructions allow visitors to travel through time.

The complex also includes research centers, restoration and digitization laboratories, archival storage facilities, and a library, shaping it as both a scientific institution and a public museum.

Global Recognition

The Islamic Civilization Center in Tashkent has already received international recognition. It has been featured in prominent publications such as Smithsonian Magazine, BBC Travel, and BBC History. It has also been included in the list of “The World’s Most Beautiful Museums 2026” as part of the Prix Versailles international award.

As noted by the Center’s Director, Firdavs Abdukhalikov:

“For many years, our President dreamed of creating a true center of enlightenment. This place reflects our people’s immense contribution to world civilization. We believe it will become a platform for dialogue among scholars and researchers from around the world.”

A Living Symbol of Revival

The opening of the Center coincided with the holy month of Ramadan. It was in this blessed month in 2018 that the foundation stone of this major project was laid. Eight years later, the Islamic Civilization Center opens its doors, becoming a powerful symbol of preserving and reviving Islamic cultural heritage for future generations.