“Science and knowledge originated precisely from this land” — impressions of the U.S. delegation at the Islamic Civilization Center
“This Center helps us understand that the origins of science and knowledge emerged precisely on the territory of Uzbekistan,” said Jack N. Gerard, Head of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the United States.
A delegation representing The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from the United States paid a visit to the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan. The guests familiarized themselves closely with all sections of the Center and had the opportunity to explore the exhibits and interactive projects.
This delegation had previously visited the Center in October 2025 as well. During the current visit, the delegation members expressed particular interest in the model of the Imam Bukhari complex located in the First Renaissance section of the museum.
In the Second Renaissance section, the guests became closely acquainted with the Timurid period and showed great interest in the interactive panels. In the hall dedicated to Shahrukh Mirzo and Baysunghur Mirzo, an audio presentation created through the image of Gawharshad Begim deeply impressed the visitors. They noted that the audio project, animated in the Uzbek language through artificial intelligence, was produced at a very high level.
The guests were also drawn to the sword of the Khan of Kokand, a garment bearing Qur’anic verses from the Baburid period, and the attire of Bibi-Khanum.
In the “New Uzbekistan – the Foundation of a New Renaissance” section, the visitors attentively examined the model of a New Uzbekistan neighborhood. They highly appreciated this area, noting its successful harmony of modern approaches and meaningful content.
Sharing his impressions, Jack N. Gerard stated:
“The Islamic Civilization Center is a truly beautiful place. It allowed us to learn a great deal about the history of this part of the world, particularly about Uzbekistan’s role across the entire region. What President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has accomplished here is an outstanding project that has genuinely made a significant contribution to the world.
Through this Center, we can understand that the origins of science and knowledge emerged precisely on the territory of Uzbekistan. Thanks to technology, interactive screens, and audio materials, even young people can easily comprehend the ancient world, which is especially beneficial for children.”
Delegation member Paul Pickard also shared his impressions as follows:
“We saw history spanning from ancient times to the modern era, passing through the First and Second Renaissance periods and viewing the exposition of present-day Uzbekistan as well. What impressed us most is how strongly the Center reflects the idea of encouraging young people to pursue knowledge. Through artificial intelligence and interactive technologies, visitors are able to ask questions to ancient scholars and explore knowledge in a vivid and engaging way.”
The exhibition that impressed the delegation the most was the Holy Qur’an Hall. The hall’s unparalleled grandeur and the fact that it was specially constructed for the unique Holy Qur’an were highly praised. It was also especially noted that the Portuguese pink marble added further beauty and splendor to the hall.
At the conclusion of the visit, the delegation expressed their gratitude to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev for this magnificent project.
