An article published in The Washington Post evaluates the newly opened Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent as a major international project showcasing Central Asia's rich intellectual and cultural heritage. It emphasizes that this institution is a modern scientific and educational center that reveals the role of Islamic civilization in the development of world science and culture.

A new phase in celebrating Central Asia's intellectual heritage is beginning in Tashkent. This initiative once again demonstrates the region's important role in the development of world science.

For centuries, the Silk Road was not only a trade route but also served as a corridor for the exchange of ideas, culture, and scientific discoveries. A large part of this heritage is connected to cities located on the territory of modern-day Uzbekistan. Today, this tradition continues with the opening of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent. Covering an area of 10 hectares, this complex celebrates the region's rich Islamic culture, architectural monuments, and scientific achievements.

Restoring a Glorious Heritage

At the center of the exhibition is one of the holiest and rarest relics of the Islamic world — the Uthman Quran. Dating back to the 7th century, this manuscript is one of the oldest surviving copies of the Quran and is included in UNESCO's "Memory of the World" register. Also on display is a piece of the Kiswa, the silk cloth covering the Kaaba in Mecca.

These priceless exhibits are presented alongside more than 2,000 manuscripts and historical artifacts returned to the Motherland on the initiative of the President. Sotheby's, Christie's, museums, galleries, and private collectors played an important role in gathering them.

The exhibitions are organized around the theme "Civilizations – Personalities – Discoveries," covering the pre-Islamic period, the First and Second Renaissances of Central Asia, and concluding with the section "New Uzbekistan — The Foundation of a New Renaissance."

One of the main highlights is the "Gallery of Great Figures," where scholars who made enormous contributions to world civilization are honored through micro-mosaic works. Among them are great figures such as Al-Khwarizmi, the founder of algebra; Ibn Sina, famous for his medical encyclopedia; and Mirzo Ulugh Beg, renowned for his star tables.

A Bridge of Dialogue and Discovery

Built in the style of Timurid architecture, the center was created based on the vision of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Its four massive portals represent the regions of Uzbekistan, and the building facades are decorated with exquisite patterns and calligraphy.

The interior environment is enriched with modern solutions: multimedia technologies, artificial intelligence-based interactive installations, and 3D reconstructions allow visitors to travel through time.

Additionally, the complex houses scientific research centers, restoration and digitization laboratories, archival storage rooms, and a library, shaping it into both a scientific institution and a public museum.

Global Recognition

The Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent has already gained international recognition. It has been featured in the rankings of influential publications such as Smithsonian Magazine, BBC Travel, and BBC History. It was also included in the list of "World's Most Beautiful Museums of 2026" as part of the Prix Versailles international award.

As noted by the Director of the Center, Firdavs Abdukhalikov:

“For many years, the President of our country dreamed of creating a true center of enlightenment. This institution demonstrates the immense contribution of our people to world civilization. We believe it will become a platform for dialogue for scholars and researchers from all over the world.”

A Living Symbol of Revival

The opening of the center coincided with the holy month of Ramadan. It was during this blessed month in 2018 that the foundation stone of this grand project was laid. 8 years later, the Center of Islamic Civilization is opening its doors, becoming a powerful symbol of the preservation and restoration of Islamic cultural heritage for future generations.