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If history could speak, perhaps its voice would be heard here. Here, the exhibits do not remain silent, and the walls do more than display history they bring it back to life. The visit of members of the Creative Union of Cinematographers of Uzbekistan to the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan became far more than a cultural excursion; it was a profound encounter with the nation's collective memory. As renowned directors, actors, and screenwriters unanimously observed, this is not merely a museum — it is a place where an entire civilization breathes.

History can be explored in many ways. It can be read in books, watched on screen, or studied through lectures. Yet experiencing history, immersing oneself in it, and sensing the breath of centuries is a rare privilege. That was precisely the experience of the members of the Creative Union of Cinematographers of Uzbekistan during their visit to the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan. For directors, actors, screenwriters, and other distinguished figures of the arts, this was not simply a guided tour, but a meaningful dialogue with their ancestors' legacy and a direct encounter with the nation's historical memory.

During the tour, the visitors explored the Gallery of Great Figures, the Pre-Islamic Civilizations section, the exhibitions dedicated to the First and Second Renaissances, the “New Uzbekistan – The Foundation of the New Renaissance” gallery, rare manuscripts, archaeological discoveries, scale models of ancient cities, and cutting-edge multimedia technologies. The Gallery of Great Figures left an especially lasting impression, allowing visitors to appreciate once again the remarkable heights reached by the civilization of the Uzbek people through the achievements of great scholars, statesmen, military leaders, and intellectuals. Throughout the visit, prominent figures from the film and television industry shared their reflections and expressed their admiration for the Center’s significance.

Film director and television presenter Burhon Sharopov remarked that the Center cannot simply be described as a museum, as every visitor becomes more than just an observer.

“I have visited numerous historical and cultural sites around the world, but the atmosphere here is unlike anything else. If the world has seven wonders, I would not hesitate to call the Islamic Civilization Center the eighth. This place is far more than a collection of walls, exhibits, or historical information. It embodies the very spirit of an entire civilization. It draws you in. As you walk through each section, you feel as though you are living in different eras. At first glance, you think you are looking at history, but in reality, you are engaging in a conversation with it. Today, places like this are shaping the world's perception of Uzbekistan. I have followed this project since its earliest stages of construction, yet the final result has exceeded even my highest expectations. One visit is simply not enough. Even after ten or fifteen visits, you continue to discover something new every time.”

Film and theater actress Saida Rametova described the Center as an extraordinary source of knowledge and inspiration for creative professionals, emphasizing that it offers an entirely new way of understanding historical reality.

“As artists, we portray historical figures on stage and on screen. We read books, study archival materials, and analyze their lives. Yet no book can replace the experience of being here. Here, you see with your own eyes and feel with your own heart.

You can read hundreds of pages about Amir Temur or Mirzo Ulugh Beg, but when you come here and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of their era, everything takes on a new meaning. You begin to understand how our ancestors lived, how they thought, and how they dedicated themselves to science, culture, and progress. In my opinion, this place serves as a creative laboratory for every artist. It is impossible not to leave here inspired.”

Film actor Abdukhalil Mingnorov described the Center as a tangible embodiment of the vision of the Third Renaissance and emphasized its exceptional educational value for younger generations.

“To be honest, I never imagined I would see a complex of this magnitude. In the past, information about our history was scattered across different sources. Here, the history of an entire nation and the legacy of an entire civilization have been brought together in one place. That is a truly remarkable achievement.

We often speak about patriotism, national pride, and the Third Renaissance. But how do we instill these ideals in people's hearts? I believe the answer is here. If a school student visits this place even once, they will gain a profound understanding of who they are and whose legacy they have inherited. This Center provides knowledge, inspiration, and confidence. I would even say that every young person should visit this place.”

Honored Artist of Uzbekistan Anvar Azimov particularly highlighted the Center's emotional and spiritual impact, noting that every detail has been carefully designed to create a meaningful experience.

“We have traveled to many countries and visited countless museums, cultural centers, and historical monuments. It is difficult to surprise people in our profession. Yet the moment I entered this Center, I was genuinely amazed. Every exhibit, every model, every detail takes you back through history. You are not merely observing the past you are walking through it. The guides’ narratives, the use of modern technology, and the design of the exhibitions are so thoughtfully integrated that visitors feel like participants in historical events. I also saw foreign tourists here, and they were equally impressed. I am convinced that everyone who visits this place will want to return not alone, but together with others. This Center is Uzbekistan's spiritual gateway to the world. It presents our country's history, culture, potential, and future all at once.”

According to the visitors, the Center’s greatest achievement lies not only in its rare artifacts or advanced technologies, but in its ability to connect people with history in a deeply personal way, helping them understand their roots while inspiring confidence in the future. At the end of the visit, the guests repeatedly expressed the same thought: this is a place to return to. It is a place to visit with one's children, students, and friends. Because the Islamic Civilization Center is more than a destination to see it is a place to experience, to study, to take pride in, and above all, a place that reminds every visitor of who they are.