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Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos visited the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan and explored its exhibitions showcasing the country’s centuries-old history, rich cultural heritage, and Renaissance traditions.

During the visit, the guest toured the Center’s exhibitions dedicated to the “Civilizations of the Pre-Islamic Period”, the First and Second Renaissances, and “New Uzbekistan – The Foundation of the New Renaissance”.

Through the 250-meter-long “Wall of Civilizations and Discoveries”, the minister was introduced to the civilizations, ancient states, trade routes, and cultural processes that emerged in the territory of present-day Uzbekistan. He was also shown exhibits such as the Sarmishsay rock carvings, 80,000-year-old arrowheads discovered in the Obi-Rahmat Cave, and a unique Bronze Age deer figurine.

In the First Renaissance exhibition, information was presented on the spread of Islam in Mawarannahr, the emergence of centers of learning and scholarship, and the lives and contributions of historical figures such as Qusam ibn Abbas and Abu Hafs Kabir. The Second Renaissance section provided detailed insight into statehood, science, architecture, and cultural development during the era of Amir Temur and the Timurids.

The Second Renaissance exhibition also featured displays reflecting the achievements of the Timurid period in governance, science, architecture, and culture. In particular, the portrayal of Amir Temur as a statesman, builder, and patron of scholars, as well as materials dedicated to the scientific accomplishments of the Timurid era, attracted the minister’s attention.

The guest also visited the “New Uzbekistan – The Foundation of the New Renaissance” exhibition, where he learned about the large-scale reforms and cultural and educational initiatives being implemented in the country within the framework of the Third Renaissance concept.

At the conclusion of the visit, Constantinos Kombos shared his impressions of the Center, describing it as a unique scientific and educational complex that vividly showcases Uzbekistan’s rich history and civilizational heritage.

At the end of his visit, the Foreign Minister of Cyprus, Constantinos Kombos, shared his reflections on the Center:

“First of all, it is a great honor for me to be here. The Islamic Civilization Center is an immensely impressive and remarkable place. It presents, in a highly engaging manner, the tremendous contribution that civilization has made to the advancement of science, culture, and society over the centuries, along with its rich history and traditions. I was particularly impressed by the way the exhibitions are organized and how the histories of different periods and peoples are interconnected and presented as part of a broader narrative.

I sincerely congratulate your President, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, on the realization of such a comprehensive and forward-looking project. This Center is important not only for understanding the history of Uzbekistan but also for appreciating the history of the entire region. Every visitor who comes here gains a broad understanding of the rich history, culture, and civilizational heritage of this land.

A vast historical legacy is embodied here. It is deeply connected with the development of science, culture, and civilization. At the same time, one can clearly see the historical interconnectedness of different peoples and civilizations. In this sense, the Islamic Civilization Center serves as an important academic and educational platform for understanding and studying the shared heritage of humanity,” said Constantinos Kombos.