Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan
President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev
Islamic Civilization Center is a bridge between the Golden Age and New Uzbekistan. It connects the rich spiritual and scientific heritage with the country’s modern aspirations. Here, the past inspires the future, creating a space of knowledge and progress.
We are now standing in front of the Islamic Civilization Center. Please pay attention to its name — it is not about religion itself, but about Islamic civilization. This is a major scientific and educational center that presents the history of Central Asia in both the pre-Islamic and Islamic periods in a compelling way.
President of the Federal Republic of Germany
It was a great pleasure for me to visit the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan. This magnificent center, established through the far-sighted initiative and vision of your President, is an invaluable treasure not only for Uzbekistan but for the entire world.
President of the Republic of Albania
The history of Uzbekistan is truly unparalleled. It is a great civilization encompassing five thousand years of development. To understand a nation, one must know its history, and here the history is exceptionally rich.
President of the Republic of Paraguay
At the present time, strengthening regional identity based on the unique historical and cultural heritage of our peoples is of particular importance. We visited the Islamic Civilization Center. It is a grand and unique complex. Indeed, it is a scientific, touristic, and ethnocultural project.
President of the Republic of Kazakhstan
To be honest, I was overwhelmed by an ocean of impressions here. Every exhibition, every hall, every detail is thoughtfully designed. Delivering three thousand years of history to today’s generation in such a modern form requires great artistry and mastery.
The President of Finland
I would like to congratulate your President and your country on the inauguration of such a magnificent complex. First of all, I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to become closely acquainted with this splendid Center.
President of Serbia
At a time when attacks against our religion are intensifying in some countries and Islamophobia is taking on a systemic character, the opening of the Islamic Civilization Center demonstrates to the entire world that Islam is a religion of creation, tolerance, friendship, and brotherhood. The great figures of the Islamic world have made an immense contribution to global science and culture, and the Islamic Civilization Center clearly reflects this. I am confident that the Islamic Civilization Center in Tashkent, unique in its grandeur and exhibitions, will become a source of pride for the entire Islamic world.
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan
I have been hearing about the construction of such a grand Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan for several years. Even when I saw the building from the outside about six months ago, I was astonished. But seeing its content today deepened that impression even more.
Head of the Republic of Bashkortostan of the Russian Federation
It is a great honor for me to be with you at the international conference dedicated to scientific traditions in Islamic civilization. Uzbekistan is one of the important centers in the history of Islamic science. The names associated with this land are still mentioned with great respect throughout the Muslim world today.
Queen of Malaysia
A project of this scale, impact, and intellectual depth requires exceptional vision, imagination, and courage. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has created an institution that will stand the test of time and continue to grow in significance with every passing year.
Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Executive Chairman of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change
On the one hand, this place is a vast and carefully designed complex, and on the other hand it places a person face to face with great civilizations that have reached us from the depths of thousands of years. The feelings that arise here are difficult to express in a single word.
Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus
It is difficult to find words to describe this museum — it is truly astonishing. Unfortunately, our time is very limited, and I will certainly need to return again one day. We have been in Uzbekistan for only a few hours, yet your country has already left a tremendous impression on me.
Prime Minister of the Czech Republic
First of all, I would like to express my gratitude to the Director of the Center and my friends in Uzbekistan for inviting me to visit the Islamic Civilization Center.
Former President of the Republic of Armenia
I am truly impressed. The grandeur of the Islamic Civilization Center has left a profound impression on me. Here, under the leadership of His Excellency President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and in cooperation with the officials entrusted with this mission, the history of Islamic civilization has been comprehensively brought to life.
Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan
What impressed me the most here, without a doubt, was the Holy Qur’an. I had the honor of seeing it back in September. Yesterday I came again with members of the delegation, and today I returned once more, this time wishing to show it to my son, who had just arrived. This was a very unique and precious moment for me.
Special Envoy of the President of the United States
I am truly delighted to have had the opportunity to make this visit and to tour the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan. What I have seen and witnessed here, as well as what I have learned about the Center's rich heritage and ancient history, has left a profound impression on my heart.
Imam of Masjid al-Haram
By closely acquainting ourselves with the activities of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, we witnessed the results achieved in a short time. Why do I say ‘a short time’? Because as you walk through the exhibitions, the thought naturally arises that creating such a large-scale endeavor usually takes decades.
Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan
Certainly, this Islamic Civilization Center, established at the initiative of our Head of State, is a unique institution that not only showcases the history of Islamic civilization but also presents the origins, development, and both the past and present life of our nation in a clear, concise, and accessible manner for everyone.
Head of the Milliy Tiklanish Democratic Party Faction in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan
It is difficult to single out any one particular aspect of this Center — everything is exceptionally beautiful and thoughtfully designed. The period from three millennia before Christ up to today’s New Uzbekistan is presented in a consistent and logical manner. This clearly and vividly demonstrates the profound transformations the country has undergone over time. I extend my very best wishes to you.
President of the Olympic Council of Asia
Today is an important historic day for the Islamic world. I pray that the First International Islamic Civilization Forum will bring goodness and blessings to our peoples and to all humanity.
Sheikh ul-Islam, Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Board
I have visited many museums around the world, but this place stands out for its uniqueness and exceptional character. Here, one can truly feel the roots of civilization
Serbian Minister of Foreign Affairs
Being here today is a great pleasure and a high honor for me. The Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, located in Tashkent, has left a profound impression on me. It is truly a unique and remarkable institution.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federative Republic of Brazil
I first saw this Center as an idea, and later during its construction. Today, I have witnessed it fully realized and it has surpassed even my highest expectations. This Center is the embodiment of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s vision, aspiration, and long-term strategic foresight. When a dream becomes reality, it becomes a source of pride not only for the person who conceived it, but for an entire nation. Today, this is a Center of which not only Uzbekistan, but the entire Islamic world can be proud.
Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO)
On the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan, I am pleased to have had the opportunity to visit this country today and, in particular, the Islamic Civilization Center.
Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye
The First International Forum on Islamic Civilization being held in Uzbekistan is an important opportunity to bring together scholars and intellectuals to address today's contemporary challenges.
Minister of Islamic Affairs of the Maldives
I have never seen such a center before. It is extremely modern and presents Islam, your rich culture, and your traditions in a clear and accessible way to visitors from all parts of the world. At the same time, the special attention given to science at the center is truly commendable.
State Minister for European and International Affairs of Bavaria
The Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan is a unique place where culture and history harmoniously come together. This complex serves the rich historical heritage of all humanity.
Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Poland
Our ancestors were great scholars who wrote books and pursued knowledge at a time when others did not even know how to read. They calculated the movements of celestial bodies using some of the world’s most unique astrolabes and scientific instruments, achieving results that differed by only a few seconds compared to modern computers today. This demonstrates their extraordinary scientific potential and exceptional intellect.
Rector of UzJOKU
Such an institution, which has succeeded in connecting a rich history with future progress, is an invaluable asset for any nation. I am confident that this solid historical foundation will also contribute to Uzbekistan’s future development.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
First of all, it should be noted that the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Miromonovich, has put forward a very important and great concept — the idea of Uzbekistan’s Third Renaissance. As is known, there have been two great Renaissance periods in the history of Uzbekistan, during which the country’s spirituality, culture, architecture, and science reached a high level of development. Today, in the 21st century, Uzbekistan is continuing along this path of progress.
Secretary General of the Turkic Culture Organization (TURKSOY)
The construction of such magnificent landmarks as the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan and the Imam Bukhari Complex, initiated by the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, is truly a remarkable and inspiring achievement.
Chairman of the Central Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Russia, Sheikh ul-Islam
In recent years, Uzbekistan has been implementing numerous reforms. One of the most prominent examples is the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, established at the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
Grand Mufti of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
I can say that I was left with a very pleasant impression. A very large-scale work has been carried out here on the instructions of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. It is clearly evident that the Center has been built with great care and at a very high quality.
Minister of Sports of the Russian Federation, Chairman of the Russian Olympic Committee
The external grandeur and internal beauty of the Center truly amazed me. I have visited many museums, but I have never seen such a perfect and unique exhibition as the museum of the Islamic Civilization Center. In particular, the original Uthman Mushaf preserved in the Qur’an Hall, one of the rare treasures of the Islamic world, deeply impressed me. Each exhibit deserves special recognition for its historical significance.
Chairman of the Senate of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
I express my sincere gratitude to the Government of Uzbekistan and the President personally for giving us the opportunity to witness this Center with our own eyes. I saw so much here that I did not know before. In my opinion, this is Uzbekistan’s hidden treasure.
President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA)
Uzbekistan’s rich heritage is an invaluable gift to all humanity. It harmonizes the wisdom shaped over centuries with contemporary global efforts aimed at building an inclusive society. This blessed institution speaks of science, innovation, and human values.
Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
It seems that the words at my disposal are not enough to fully express my impressions. When we were providing information about the Islamic Civilization Center through live broadcasts, a wish arose in my heart — to visit this Center, see it with my own eyes, become closely acquainted with each exhibit in its halls, and receive detailed information about them. Today, that dream has come true.
Honored Cultural Worker of Uzbekistan, presenter
Indeed, seeing at the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan the rich history that has taken shape over centuries, contributed to the advancement of science and knowledge, and continued to evolve to the stage of development we witness today filled me with great joy, pride, and admiration.
Minister of Health of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
First of all, I am very pleased to pay an official visit to Uzbekistan. This is my first official visit since assuming the position of Secretary-General, and I am very happy to have the opportunity to visit the Islamic Civilization Center. I know that this center has recently opened, and I congratulate you on presenting a beautiful story about five different civilizations.
Secretary-General of UN Tourism
I must say that before entering this place, I did not expect to have such a strong impression. At first, we thought we would simply enter an ordinary museum, look at the exhibits, and leave. However, what truly amazed me was the opportunity to interact directly with each exhibit, to touch them, and to immerse oneself in the atmosphere of that era. When I visited a museum in London last year and saw such interactive methods, I wished that we could have similar opportunities as well. Today, after seeing even more beautiful, more magnificent, and most importantly, highly engaging exhibitions for young people at the Islamic Civilization Center, it felt as if those dreams had come true.
Chairperson of the Youth Parliament under the Senate of the Oliy Majlis
“To be honest, the work accomplished here truly impressed me. I sincerely congratulate the leadership of Uzbekistan, your President, and all the artists and historians who brought this project to life. This is an unparalleled and extremely important project for Uzbekistan. Its inclusion among the world’s top ten would be entirely logical. The project has been studied in great depth and revealed down to the finest details.
Vice President of the World Academy of Sciences
It is a great honor for me to participate in this international media forum. In a short period of time, I have already gained many new impressions and valuable insights. I believe the most important aspect of such a forum is that it brings together journalists, media representatives, and experts from different countries on a single platform, creating an opportunity for open dialogue about history, culture, and contemporary development.
Chief Executive Officer and Editorial Director of Euronews
We felt immense happiness upon arriving at this place. First of all, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to the President of Uzbekistan, the leadership of the Center, and the entire people of Uzbekistan. As a Muslim and a Turk, it was a great honor for me to see this remarkable institution.
President of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA)
Here, the three renaissances the processes and the legacy created by the great individuals who shaped today’s Uzbekistan are presented clearly and concisely. The first transformations that guided humanity toward a new direction and the tremendous breakthroughs are thoroughly illuminated here, and their significance is immense.
Poland’s Minister of Agriculture
We spent more than an hour and a half here, yet it was far from enough. In fact, to fully explore this museum, one should set aside at least half a day.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security of Malaysia
This Center is a truly impressive place that brings together the country's rich past and its modern vision for the future. It helps visitors understand Uzbekistan’s pivotal role on the Great Silk Road, which connected the East and the West. What impressed me the most was the remarkable integration of historical heritage with innovative technologies and artificial intelligence.
President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
I am extremely pleased to have visited the Islamic Civilization Center and its museum in Uzbekistan. This center is a truly unique and important project established on the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. This place provides a deep and systematic presentation of Uzbekistan’s distinctive history from the pre-Islamic period to the Islamic era.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of France to Uzbekistan
I am grateful for the opportunity to visit this place. Understanding Islamic civilization through culture is especially important for people coming from European countries.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Portuguese Republic to the Republic of Uzbekistan
This is my first visit to the Center, and it left a very strong impression on me. I believe that this Center, established at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, is truly a great project of global significance.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Germany to Uzbekistan
We are witnessing the opening of a prestigious scientific and practical conference dedicated to the great contribution of Amir Temur and the Timurid civilization to world development.
President of the International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation
Although 57 countries are members of our organization, Uzbekistan has a special place. This is because Uzbekistan is the birthplace of some of the greatest scholars of the Islamic world.
Director-General of the International Research Centre for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA)
This place, in fact, is considered the cradle of almost all fields of science we know today — such as mathematics, astronomy, physics, and other disciplines. I am a physicist, and it was very interesting for me to see where and under what conditions science was formed. What I liked the most was the First Renaissance section, especially the development of science and mathematics in the territory of Uzbekistan, which aroused great interest in me.
Director of the World Academy of Sciences
Here, history spanning centuries and even thousands of years is presented. All periods interest me, as each offers many fascinating aspects that can be compared with the present day.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Belarus to Uzbekistan
I have many wonderful and heartfelt impressions of this Center. First and foremost, I was deeply impressed by the exceptional quality with which every detail of this building has been executed. The elegant patterns on the walls, the exquisite craftsmanship of the doors, and the rich artisanal traditions reflected in every corner of the museum are truly remarkable.
President of the New Development Bank
Above all, what I saw here was Uzbekistan’s profound respect for its own history and cultural heritage. The fact that the sacred Mushaf of Caliph Uthman is preserved at the heart of this Center and that people have the opportunity to see it with their own eyes is truly remarkable.
United States Trade Representative
It is a great honor for me to be here today and to see the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan with my own eyes. In my view, this institution is a tremendous spiritual treasure not only for the people of Uzbekistan, but also for the entire Turkic world and the Islamic world.
President of the National Olympic Committee of the Kyrgyz Republic
I am truly amazed, because I never expected to see such a dedicated hall. I was especially proud to see the logo of the Timurid Society. This association has been active for many years. What impressed me most is that it began as a modest initiative and has continued its work steadily for 37 years.
President of the Association for the Study of History and Art of the Timurid
I am truly impressed. In my opinion, this is one of the best ways to introduce the general public not only to your country’s history, but also to the history of Islam through a very modern and educational approach.
European Commissioner for International Partnerships
I could not have imagined such a center. I was sincerely amazed by how beautifully you present all the aspects that are important to your history and modern life. I am very pleased to see this Center it is a great honor for me. I would also like to add that, as you know, the Islamic Civilization Center was built on the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The idea of creating such a center and its entire purpose deserves the highest respect.
European Commissioner for Enlargement
First of all, I would like to emphasize that visiting this Center for the first time is a great honor and a tremendous pleasure for me. What I saw today has left a truly remarkable impression on me. Without any hesitation, I can say that this is one of the finest museums created by humanity in recent decades.
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Euronews
The Islamic Civilization Center inspires admiration and fascination in people. In particular, the fact that it was established on the initiative of Shavkat Mirziyoyev further enhances its significance.
President of the International Turkic Academy
What I have seen here is truly astonishing beyond belief. I have never encountered anything like the scenes I witnessed today anywhere else. Every detail inside the Center, the attention given to each section, is exceptionally refined and purposefully designed.
“Formula 1” driver
The significance of this media forum is immense. Bringing representatives of professional media organizations together on a single platform produces a completely different impact in the information environment. Although blogging is one of the rapidly developing and important areas today, traditional media have their own audiences, spheres of influence, levels of trust, and editorial policies. Therefore, the fact that this event is being held specifically in the format of a media forum, with the participation of numerous representatives of international media outlets, is particularly significant.
Head of Commercial Representatives for BBC Studios Eurasia
The hall features 14 arches depicting key events in the history of the peoples of Central Asia. Here, modern technologies transform history into a living dialogue. Through interactive touch panels, visitors can access a digital platform created on the President’s initiative, which includes avatars of more than one hundred great thinkers and scholars. They “come to life” on the screens, speaking about their ideas and discoveries.
The hall features 14 arches depicting key events in the history of the peoples of Central Asia. Here, modern technologies transform history into a living dialogue. Through interactive touch panels, visitors can access a digital platform created on the President’s initiative, which includes avatars of more than one hundred great thinkers and scholars. They “come to life” on the screens, speaking about their ideas and discoveries.
The Qur’an Hall is the conceptual and architectural center of the entire museum, built around the oldest surviving copy of the Qur’an in the world. This sacred text is a 7th-century manuscript written on deerskin and included in UNESCO’s “Memory of the World” Register. Located at the heart of the complex, the hall serves as a spiritual center. Here, one of the world’s oldest sacred manuscripts the Uthman Qur’an (may Allah be pleased with him) is preserved with great reverence. In addition to the main manuscript, the hall displays Qur’an manuscripts created on the basis of the 114 surahs.
The Qur’an Hall is the conceptual and architectural center of the entire museum, built around the oldest surviving copy of the Qur’an in the world. This sacred text is a 7th-century manuscript written on deerskin and included in UNESCO’s “Memory of the World” Register. Located at the heart of the complex, the hall serves as a spiritual center. Here, one of the world’s oldest sacred manuscripts the Uthman Qur’an (may Allah be pleased with him) is preserved with great reverence. In addition to the main manuscript, the hall displays Qur’an manuscripts created on the basis of the 114 surahs.
This hall features artifacts related to Sogdian culture, works of art, textile products, and items of traditional applied folk art. Many objects connected to the historical land of Sogdiana previously housed in world-famous museums and private collections, including garments, statues and figurines, ceramic and metal vessels, weapons, coins, and seals can now be seen in the Center’s exhibition.
This hall features artifacts related to Sogdian culture, works of art, textile products, and items of traditional applied folk art. Many objects connected to the historical land of Sogdiana previously housed in world-famous museums and private collections, including garments, statues and figurines, ceramic and metal vessels, weapons, coins, and seals can now be seen in the Center’s exhibition.
The “Tolerance” Square in the First Renaissance period section embodies the traditions of religious, cultural, and intellectual tolerance that developed over centuries within the territory of Uzbekistan. The exhibition of this square brings together architectural monuments, sacred symbols, and rare heritage sites that hold an important place in the history of Central Asia and Islamic civilization. The square features scale models of the Rabati Malik complex, the Mag‘oki Attori Mosque, the Chashmai Ayub Mausoleum, the Samanid Mausoleum, and the Qusamiya Madrasa.
The “Tolerance” Square in the First Renaissance period section embodies the traditions of religious, cultural, and intellectual tolerance that developed over centuries within the territory of Uzbekistan. The exhibition of this square brings together architectural monuments, sacred symbols, and rare heritage sites that hold an important place in the history of Central Asia and Islamic civilization. The square features scale models of the Rabati Malik complex, the Mag‘oki Attori Mosque, the Chashmai Ayub Mausoleum, the Samanid Mausoleum, and the Qusamiya Madrasa.
The hall presents the spirit of scientific and spiritual flourishing of the Timurid era in harmony with modern museum technologies. Delicate tilework in the architectural decoration, Qur’anic verses, and classical ornamental patterns express the artistic and aesthetic thought of the Eastern Renaissance. Through portrayals of Alisher Navoi, his literary and philosophical heritage, manuscripts, and works of art, the exhibitions vividly reveal the scientific, cultural, and spiritual character of the Second Renaissance.
The hall presents the spirit of scientific and spiritual flourishing of the Timurid era in harmony with modern museum technologies. Delicate tilework in the architectural decoration, Qur’anic verses, and classical ornamental patterns express the artistic and aesthetic thought of the Eastern Renaissance. Through portrayals of Alisher Navoi, his literary and philosophical heritage, manuscripts, and works of art, the exhibitions vividly reveal the scientific, cultural, and spiritual character of the Second Renaissance.
Since 2017, a new era has begun in Uzbekistan’s development. At the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the idea of the New Uzbekistan and the Third Renaissance has been consistently implemented. Located at the center of the exhibition, this stele is designed as a modern glass installation that embodies the spirit of renewal and progress of the country. Video content displayed on LED screens artistically reflects historical heritage, contemporary reforms, and aspirations for the future.
Since 2017, a new era has begun in Uzbekistan’s development. At the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the idea of the New Uzbekistan and the Third Renaissance has been consistently implemented. Located at the center of the exhibition, this stele is designed as a modern glass installation that embodies the spirit of renewal and progress of the country. Video content displayed on LED screens artistically reflects historical heritage, contemporary reforms, and aspirations for the future.
The Children’s Exhibition at the Islamic Civilization Center is being created as a modern educational space designed to teach, engage, and inspire the younger generation. It introduces children to Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage, national identity, and the lives and ideas of great scholars throughout history. The immersive and playful environment not only delivers knowledge but also enriches visitors’ overall impressions of the Center. Through interactive experiences, the project invites young guests to explore the harmony between history and science, attracts a wide audience, and strengthens a sense of national pride and respect for culture in future generations.
The Children’s Exhibition at the Islamic Civilization Center is being created as a modern educational space designed to teach, engage, and inspire the younger generation. It introduces children to Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage, national identity, and the lives and ideas of great scholars throughout history. The immersive and playful environment not only delivers knowledge but also enriches visitors’ overall impressions of the Center. Through interactive experiences, the project invites young guests to explore the harmony between history and science, attracts a wide audience, and strengthens a sense of national pride and respect for culture in future generations.
The library of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, designed to accommodate nearly 300 readers, is a modern scholarly and educational hub. Covering an area of 3,105 square meters, it houses ancient manuscripts, scholarly, literary, historical, and cultural-educational works, as well as rare publications. The library provides a comfortable environment for researchers and the general readership and serves the study of national and global spiritual heritage.
The library of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan, designed to accommodate nearly 300 readers, is a modern scholarly and educational hub. Covering an area of 3,105 square meters, it houses ancient manuscripts, scholarly, literary, historical, and cultural-educational works, as well as rare publications. The library provides a comfortable environment for researchers and the general readership and serves the study of national and global spiritual heritage.
