The Bibi-Khanym Mosque

Visiting the Bibi-Khanym Mosque in Samarkand offers a captivating journey into the city’s rich history. Commissioned by Timur in the early 15th century, this mosque was once among the largest and most magnificent in the Islamic world. Dedicated to Timur’s wife, Saray Mulk Khanum, the mosque’s construction involved architects from Iran and India, along with the labor of ninety-five elephants transporting materials.   The mosque’s imposing entrance portal, or pishtak, stands 38 meters high, leading into a vast courtyard. The main dome rises to 41 meters, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Timurid era. Despite facing structural challenges over the centuries, including earthquakes and neglect, significant restoration efforts have returned much of the mosque to its former grandeur.   As a tourist, exploring the Bibi-Khanym Mosque provides insight into Samarkand’s historical significance and architectural beauty, reflecting the city’s status as a pivotal center along the Silk Road. #springwander #samarkand #uzbekistan