View allAll Photos Tagged IslamicHistory
photo rights reserved by Ben
The impressive Hazrati Imam Complex, also known as Khast Imam, is one of the most important religious sites in Tashkent. Its monumental brick architecture, turquoise domes and richly decorated tilework form a striking contrast with the clear blue Central Asian sky. The large ribbed turquoise dome immediately catches the eye, while two smaller domes rise behind the complex. Decorative panels of blue and turquoise tiles surround the pointed arches and add colour to the warm tones of the brickwork. In front of the tall central entrance, a single visitor almost disappears against the scale of the architecture. The complex developed around the tomb of Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, a 10th-century Islamic scholar and one of Tashkent’s most revered historical figures. The complex is also home to the Muyi Muborak Madrasa, where the famous Uthman Qur’an is preserved. Dating from the 7th century, it is regarded as one of the oldest surviving Qur’an manuscripts in the world and is one of the most important treasures of Islamic heritage in Tashkent.
Hazrati Imam is an important spiritual centre of Tashkent, bringing together several mosques, madrasas and historic religious buildings. The complex also preserves the famous Uthman Qur’an, one of the oldest surviving Qur’an manuscripts in the world.
Het indrukwekkende Hazrati Imam-complex, ook bekend als Khast Imam, is een van de belangrijkste religieuze plekken van Tasjkent. De monumentale baksteenarchitectuur, turquoise koepels en rijk gedecoreerde tegelmotieven steken prachtig af tegen de heldere Centraal-Aziatische lucht. De grote geribbelde turquoise koepel trekt onmiddellijk de aandacht, terwijl daarachter nog twee kleinere koepels zichtbaar zijn. Rond de spitsbogen zorgen blauwe en turquoise tegeldecoraties voor kleur tussen de warme tinten van het baksteen. Voor de hoge centrale ingang staat een enkele bezoeker die bijna wegvalt tegen de enorme afmetingen van het gebouw. Het complex ontwikkelde zich rond het graf van Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, een islamitische geleerde uit de 10e eeuw en één van de meest vereerde historische figuren van Tasjkent. In het complex bevindt zich ook de Muyi Muborak-madrasa, waar de beroemde Uthman-Koran wordt bewaard. Dit 7e-eeuwse handschrift geldt als een van de oudste nog bestaande Korans ter wereld en behoort tot de belangrijkste islamitische erfgoedstukken van Tasjkent.
photo rights reserved by Ben
The entrance of the Center for Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, reveals an extraordinary display of Islamic decoration. The deep pointed arch is filled with elaborate muqarnas, a traditional form of three-dimensional ornamentation often described as resembling honeycombs or stalactites. Hundreds of small geometric surfaces come together in an intricate composition of blue, turquoise, white and gold. Every section seems to contain another pattern, yet together they form an almost perfectly symmetrical whole. The combination of geometric motifs, floral decoration and Arabic calligraphy reflects the remarkable craftsmanship found throughout the complex. Looking closely, the architecture almost seems to dissolve into countless individual pieces of colour and detail.
Hundreds of details coming together as one beneath the richly decorated entrance of the Center for Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Van dichtbij toont de toegang van het Center for Islamic Civilization in Tasjkent, Oezbekistan een indrukwekkende rijkdom aan islamitische decoratie. De diepe spitsboog is gevuld met prachtig uitgewerkte muqarnas, een traditionele driedimensionale versiering die vaak wordt vergeleken met honingraten of stalactieten. Honderden kleine geometrische vlakken vormen samen een ingewikkeld patroon van blauw, turquoise, wit en goud. Bijna ieder vlak heeft zijn eigen versiering en toch vormt alles samen een prachtig symmetrisch geheel. De combinatie van geometrische patronen, bloemmotieven en Arabische kalligrafie laat goed zien hoeveel vakmanschap in de decoratie van het complex is gestoken. Hoe langer je kijkt, hoe meer details je ontdekt.
photo rights reserved by Ben
Seen through the monumental entrance, the Center for Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, appears almost perfectly framed by the pointed arch. The richly decorated façade and magnificent turquoise dome immediately draw the eye, while the enormous traditional lantern above adds another layer of Islamic design to the composition. The contrast between the shadowed entrance and the bright Central Asian sunlight outside creates a natural frame and gives the scene a remarkable sense of depth. A solitary man dressed in white provides scale and a quiet human presence among the monumental architecture. The Center for Islamic Civilization was created to present and preserve the rich Islamic heritage of Uzbekistan and Central Asia, bringing together history, scholarship, manuscripts and art in an impressive architectural setting.
A quiet human presence beneath the monumental architecture of the Center for Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Vanuit de donkere monumentale toegang verschijnt het Center for Islamic Civilization in Tasjkent, Oezbekistan bijna als een schilderij binnen een lijst. De rijk gedecoreerde gevel en de enorme turquoise koepel worden perfect omsloten door de spitsboog, terwijl de grote traditionele lamp bovenin nog een extra laag aan de compositie toevoegt. Het contrast tussen de schaduw van de doorgang en het felle Centraal-Aziatische zonlicht buiten zorgt voor veel diepte. De eenzame man in het wit is klein binnen het geheel, maar juist daardoor laat hij prachtig zien hoe monumentaal de architectuur is. Het Center for Islamic Civilization is gewijd aan het bewaren en presenteren van het rijke islamitische erfgoed van Oezbekistan en Centraal-Azië, met aandacht voor geschiedenis, wetenschap, manuscripten en kunst.
photo rights reserved by Ben
The Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent rises impressively above its beautifully landscaped gardens, dominated by its enormous turquoise-blue dome and richly decorated façades. Although its monumental Islamic architecture may make it look like a grand mosque, the complex is actually a museum, research and educational centre devoted to the history and heritage of Islamic civilization. In April 2026, the Center was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's largest museum dedicated to Islamic civilization. Its spectacular central dome reaches a height of approximately 65 metres and can be seen from far across this part of Tashkent. What caught my attention here was not only the enormous building, but also the carefully designed park surrounding it. Young trees, colourful flower beds and geometric paths create a green foreground, while the great dome remains the unmistakable focal point. The small figure walking through the gardens gives some idea of the immense scale of the complex. Under the clear blue sky of Tashkent, Uzbekistan, the turquoise dome, pale stonework and green gardens came together beautifully.
The world's largest museum dedicated to Islamic civilization, rising above the gardens of Tashkent.
Het Centrum voor Islamitische Beschaving in Tashkent rijst indrukwekkend boven de fraai aangelegde tuinen uit. De enorme turkooisblauwe koepel en rijk gedecoreerde gevels doen in eerste instantie misschien denken aan een grote moskee, maar het complex is in werkelijkheid een museum, onderzoeks- en educatief centrum gewijd aan de geschiedenis en het erfgoed van de islamitische beschaving. In april 2026 werd het centrum officieel opgenomen in het Guinness World Records als het grootste museum ter wereld dat gewijd is aan de islamitische beschaving. De spectaculaire centrale koepel bereikt een hoogte van ongeveer 65 meter en is al van grote afstand zichtbaar. Wat mij hier niet alleen opviel was het enorme gebouw, maar ook het zorgvuldig ontworpen park eromheen. Jonge bomen, kleurrijke bloemenperken en geometrische wandelpaden vormen een groene voorgrond, terwijl de grote koepel overal bovenuit blijft steken. De kleine persoon die door de tuin loopt, geeft mooi aan hoe gigantisch het complex eigenlijk is. Onder de strakblauwe hemel van Tashkent, Oezbekistan kwamen het turkoois van de koepel, het lichte natuursteen en het groen van de tuinen prachtig samen.
Topkapi Palace, situated in Istanbul, Turkey, stands as a monumental testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire at its zenith. Constructed in the 15th century under the order of Sultan Mehmed II, following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the palace served as the administrative center and royal residence of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly four centuries, until the mid-19th century when the court was moved to Dolmabahçe Palace.
Covering approximately 700,000 square meters at the tip of the historic peninsula overlooking both the Bosphorus Strait and the Golden Horn, the palace complex is a stunning showcase of Islamic art, with its elaborate courtyards, exquisite tile work, and intricate architecture. The layout of the palace is a series of courtyards, each serving different purposes and increasing in privacy: the First Courtyard served as a service area; the Second Courtyard was the administrative heart of the empire; the Third Courtyard housed the Sultan’s private residence and the treasury, including the Imperial Council (Divan); and the Fourth Courtyard was a series of gardens and pavilions used for private relaxation.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Topkapi Palace is its Imperial Harem, a secluded section that housed the Sultan’s wives, concubines, and children, along with a large staff of eunuchs who managed the day-to-day affairs. The Harem is particularly noted for its architectural significance and intricate interior decorations.
The palace also holds an extensive collection of artifacts that reflect the splendor of the Ottoman era, including imperial treasures, religious relics, and a significant collection of manuscripts and decorative arts. Among its most prized possessions are the Prophet Muhammad’s cloak and sword, which draw pilgrims and visitors from around the Islamic world.
Today, Topkapi Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and operates as a museum, attracting millions of visitors each year eager to explore its rich history and cultural heritage. Its strategic location offers panoramic views of Istanbul and the waters that define it, making it not only a historical treasure but also a symbol of the city’s enduring legacy as a bridge between continents and cultures.
Form, light, shade and aesthetic purity coalesce in the historic tenth century royal palace in Seville. Formerly the site of the Islamic era citadel of the city, the citadel was developed into a larger palace complex by the Abbadid dynasty and Almohads through the eleventh, twelfth and thirteenth centuries. A difficult image to capture.
photo rights reserved by Ben
Looking up at the Hazrati Imam Jome Mosque in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, one of its minarets rises above the richly decorated wooden gallery. The strong diagonal of the roof leads the eye towards the brick tower, while the warm colours of the wood and brickwork stand out beautifully against the clear blue Central Asian sky. The present Hazrati Imam Mosque was completed in 2007 and forms part of the historic Hazrati Imam Complex, the religious heart of Tashkent's Old City. Although relatively new, its architecture follows traditional Uzbek and Central Asian styles. Particularly impressive are the beautifully carved wooden columns, beams and decorative friezes. Traditional woodcarving has a long history in Uzbekistan, and here the intricate patterns add warmth and craftsmanship to the monumental architecture. Above the roofline, the brick minaret is finished with decorative blue tilework and an elaborate crown, visually connecting it with the turquoise colours found throughout the complex.
Traditional craftsmanship and Islamic architecture beneath the blue skies of Tashkent.
Een blik omhoog bij de Hazrati Imam Jome-moskee in Tashkent, Oezbekistan. Boven de rijk gedecoreerde houten galerij rijst een van de minaretten uit. De sterke diagonale lijn van het dak leidt het oog vanzelf naar de bakstenen toren, terwijl de warme kleuren van hout en baksteen prachtig afsteken tegen de heldere Centraal-Aziatische lucht. De huidige Hazrati Imam-moskee werd voltooid in 2007 en maakt deel uit van het historische Hazrati Imam-complex, het religieuze hart van de oude stad van Tashkent. Hoewel de moskee relatief jong is, sluit de architectuur nauw aan bij traditionele Oezbeekse en Centraal-Aziatische bouwstijlen. Bijzonder fraai zijn de rijk bewerkte houten zuilen, balken en sierlijsten. Houtsnijwerk kent in Oezbekistan een eeuwenoude traditie en de vele verfijnde patronen geven het monumentale gebouw tegelijkertijd iets warms en ambachtelijks. Boven de dakrand is de bakstenen minaret afgewerkt met decoratief blauw tegelwerk en een rijk vormgegeven kroon, waarmee de bekende turquoise kleuren van het complex subtiel terugkomen.
photo rights reserved by Ben
At the Hazrati Imam Complex in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, this remarkable miniature Qur’an is displayed alongside other historic Islamic manuscripts. According to the museum information, this tiny Qur’an dates from the 19th century and contains the complete text of the Qur’an. Despite its extremely small size, the pages contain finely formed Arabic script, surrounded by delicate decorative borders. Producing books on such a miniature scale required extraordinary precision. Extremely fine writing instruments and carefully prepared ink allowed calligraphers to create letters only a fraction of the normal size. Although the text could be deciphered at very close range or with magnification, miniature Qur’ans were also treasured as portable objects of devotion and craftsmanship.
Only a few centimetres across, yet containing the complete Quran – an extraordinary example of the skill and patience of 19th-century craftsmen. This macro photograph reveals details that are barely visible to the naked eye.
Volgens de informatie van het museum dateert deze piepkleine Koran uit de 19e eeuw en bevat hij de volledige tekst van de Koran. Ondanks het extreem kleine formaat zijn op de pagina's fijn uitgevoerde Arabische letters en zelfs decoratieve kaders te zien. Het vervaardigen van zulke miniatuurboeken vereiste een enorme precisie. Met zeer fijne schrijfinstrumenten en zorgvuldig bereide inkt konden kalligrafen letters maken die slechts een fractie van hun normale formaat hadden. De tekst kon van zeer dichtbij of met vergroting worden ontcijferd, maar dergelijke miniatuur-Korans waren ook bijzondere draagbare religieuze voorwerpen en staaltjes van vakmanschap. Slechts enkele centimeters groot en toch met de volledige Koran – een bijzonder staaltje van het geduld en vakmanschap van 19e-eeuwse ambachtslieden. Deze macrofoto onthult details die met het blote oog nauwelijks te zien zijn.
A Sword “Unmatched by Precedent” (Unlikely to Be Found):
Let us quote exactly what Tahsin Öz, the former museum director, wrote about the sword and its epitaph on pages 38 and 39 of this book:
“At the time this sword was opened for inventory, the sword had a thicker layer of rust than other swords. When it was cleaned, human images and writings were found on it, and it appeared that these were real.
The hilt of the sword is covered with black leather on wood and the cross guard is made of iron. Its length is 101 inches. The base is wide and the two edges are sharp and the tip is pointed. There is a picture of a person near the hilt of the base, holding a sword in one hand and a head in the other. There is an Arabic line under it, which is well deserved, and among the writings there is another type of writing (perhaps Nabati) whose type we cannot determine. In the last line, the names of David, Solomon, Musa, Harun, Joshua, Zekeriyya, Yahya, Isa, Muhammad can be read.
The iron of this sword is made of white metal, and it is extremely sharp and has a characteristic that cannot be matched. However, it was impossible to determine its nature from the partially readable writings on it. After a while, while the works in the palace’s warehouse called the Emanrt Treasure were being classified, a copper inscription caught our attention. Because it had the same pictures on the sword. One side of this inscription was in Arabic with 32 lines and 28 lines on the other side were in the aforementioned font. The picture here was more obvious than the sword.
Head of the Inscription of the Sword
After giving this technical information about the sword and its inscription, Tahsin Öz goes to the summary of the inscription. This is where the real oddities come together.
On one side of this strange inscription, there is a figure holding a sword in one hand and a severed head in the other hand, similar to the sword (as seen in the picture); However, there are major differences between them that seem small. It is as follows: The picture of the man with the sword -it is understood that this picture represents Prophet David – has a funnel-shaped cone on his head, while the figure in the inscription has two horns on his head. When this situation is evaluated together with the feet of the figure, it is clearly understood that this picture represents a genie. Because the two figures that look like the feet of the demon (that is, for show) are not actually feet, but the letter ط (Tı) in Arabic. When the letters ط (Tı) are excluded from the picture, the genie’s legs are bent backwards. The picture looks like a talisman when evaluated together with the vefks below. Perhaps the sword was made as a protective talisman.
Pictorial Part of the Sword
The figure holding a sword in one hand and a severed head in the other (the cut head is slightly faint) and depicting the event of Prophet David killing Goliath is depicted on the sword.
On the face of the copper inscription with a genie picture, a text that cannot be understood in which language and alphabet draws attention. Anyone familiar with occult sciences can understand that these writings, which Tahsin Bey, the former director of the museum, said “may be Nabataean”, are talismanic writings about demons. Historians are well aware of the genie issue. Therefore, Tahsin Bey may have guessed that these writings were jinn, but he did not want to express it from his book, which he wrote in an academic and official style, because this is a metaphysical issue..(?)
Jinn can be written in many different secret alphabets; We can see the common vefk characters here both on the sword and in the inscription.
The story of Talut and Goliath described in Surah Baccarat and the depictions on the sword and inscription in the Topkapı Palace Museum draw attention to the same event. And in the inscription of the sword, it is written that the sword will be delivered to the Mahdi. The relevant sections in the book are as follows.
“Ali says; I found this sword and plate in the treasury of Melik Mukavkis, the owner of Egypt. He had a narration from Prophet David in Syriac and Hebrew. He says; When Goliath became hostile to me, I made a sword and an arrow as my Lord had taught me. And after the galabeh, God made me victorious. One of the signs of this sword is that; On one side, there is a person with a sword and a head in his hand, and on the other side, a person sitting on the pulpit of the country. That severed head expresses my killing of Goliath, and the one sitting on the pulpit expresses his judgment on Solomon and everything. This blessed sword will reach Prophet Yusuf… After that, Hazrat. It reaches Zechariah, then Yahya, and then Jesus. Then it is presented to the Prophet Muhammad. After his death, he reaches Hazrat Abu Bakr. Then he inherited his son Muhammad. Ali bin Abu Talib appoints Muhammad as governor of Egypt. Then he dies. And the sword returns to the treasure of Prophet Yusuf. Then it remains hidden until the 880th year of the Hijra. Elif will be transferred to Egypt. After the Ottomans state is complete, they will fight until the time of Kuffar Mahdi. God bless them. Then the sword will pass to the Mahdi, the owner of the time, and it will reach the Prophet Jesus. With him, the one-eyed hypocrite ibn-i siyat will murder the Dajjal. Allah and His Messenger reported them as secret sciences.”
The strangeness in the copper inscription continues.
There is an Arabic text on the back of the inscription (Image above) and what is described in this text contains information that seems contradictory at first glance. The mystery of the text, which includes some of the prophecies that have come true, is knotted in a picture of a ship encrypted with the science of cifir. But before that, the point that draws our attention is that; There is something strange about saying that Prophet David’s sword will reach Prophet Yusuf. Because Prophet Yusuf lived and died centuries before Prophet David. How is it that the sword reaches other prophets after Prophet Yusuf and returns to Yusuf’s treasury this time. It’s like talking about a time spiral. The strangeness of the chronology given in this inscription, which was preserved and preserved by the Ottomans for centuries, must have been noticed by the Ottomans immediately, because the tradition of religious sciences was always very widespread and developed in the Ottoman Empire. Therefore, it is almost impossible that they did not notice this strangeness. Moreover, the inscription mentions the “Completion of the Ottoman Empire”, that is, the collapse of the state. At that time, even if anyone said such a thing, it would probably result in my extradition. So why did the Ottoman state preserve and protect these pieces for centuries? That is a separate question that remains a mystery.
A Torre Hassan, em Rabat, Marrocos, é o minarete incompleto da ambiciosa Mesquita de Hassan, um projeto do califa almóada Yaqub al-Mansur, iniciado em 1195. Desenhada para ser uma das maiores mesquitas do mundo islâmico ocidental, rivalizando com as de Marraquexe e Sevilha, a sua construção foi abruptamente interrompida em 1199 com a morte do califa, deixando o minarete com 44 metros de altura, metade do planeado. A torre, construída em arenito avermelhado, é adornada com intrincados relevos geométricos e padrões sebka, típicos da arquitetura mourisca, e destaca-se no conjunto que integra também as colunas truncadas que delineavam o vasto salão de orações, nunca concluído. O local, classificado como Património Mundial da UNESCO e sobrevivente do terramoto de 1755, simboliza a ambição dinástica dos almóadas e a história interrompida de Rabat, integrando-se hoje num espaço cívico e memorial próximo do Mausoléu de Mohammed V, unindo passado medieval e presente marroquino.
The Hassan Tower in Rabat, Morocco, is the incomplete minaret of the ambitious Hassan Mosque, a project of the Almohad caliph Yaqub al-Mansur, begun in 1195. Designed to be one of the largest mosques in the Western Islamic world, rivaling those in Marrakesh and Seville, its construction was abruptly halted in 1199 with the death of the caliph, leaving the minaret 44 meters high, half of what was planned. The tower, built in reddish sandstone, is adorned with intricate geometric reliefs and sebka patterns, typical of Moorish architecture, and stands out in the complex, which also includes the truncated columns that outlined the vast prayer hall, never completed. The site, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and survivor of the 1755 earthquake, symbolizes the dynastic ambition of the Almohads and the interrupted history of Rabat. Today, it is part of a civic and memorial space near the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, linking the medieval past and the Moroccan present.
photo rights reserved by Ben
Preserved at the Hazrati Imam Complex in Tashkent is the famous Uthman Quran, regarded as one of the oldest surviving Qur’an manuscripts in the world. Dating from the early centuries of Islam, the enormous manuscript is one of the great historical treasures of Uzbekistan. Seen here from close range, its age becomes almost tangible. The famous Uthman Quran in Tashkent was written on large sheets of animal skin (parchment). The thick stack of large, irregular pages, their worn and fragile edges and the bold black Arabic script reveal the extraordinary physical character of the manuscript. The Qur’an is kept behind thick protective glass under subdued lighting, making it difficult to see all its details clearly. Yet from this close perspective, the centuries of wear are perhaps even more impressive than the written page itself. The manuscript is traditionally associated with Caliph Uthman ibn Affan, the third caliph of Islam. Its exact dating and history remain subjects of scholarly discussion, which is why it is more accurately described as one of the world's oldest surviving Quran manuscripts rather than simply the oldest. In 2000, the historic Mushaf of Uthman was inscribed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register, recognizing its exceptional documentary and cultural significance.
The ancient Uthman Qur’an, dating from the early centuries of Islam and preserved at the Hazrati Imam Complex in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. More than a manuscript — centuries of history preserved between its fragile pages.
In het Hazrati Imam-complex in Tasjkent wordt de beroemde Uthman-Koran bewaard, die wordt beschouwd als één van de oudste nog bestaande Koranmanuscripten ter wereld. Het enorme handschrift dateert uit de vroege eeuwen van de islam en behoort tot de belangrijkste historische schatten van Oezbekistan. Van zo dichtbij wordt vooral de ouderdom van het manuscript bijna tastbaar. Het dikke pakket grote, onregelmatige bladen, de versleten en kwetsbare randen en het krachtige zwarte Arabische schrift laten het bijzondere fysieke karakter van het manuscript zien. De Koran is oorspronkelijk geschreven op grote bladen dierenhuid/perkament. De Koran wordt achter dik beschermend glas en bij gedempt licht bewaard, waardoor de details niet altijd gemakkelijk zichtbaar zijn. Juist vanuit deze lage hoek vallen de vele afzonderlijke bladen en hun eeuwenoude slijtage prachtig op. Het manuscript wordt traditioneel in verband gebracht met kalief Uthman ibn Affan, de derde kalief van de islam. Over de exacte datering en geschiedenis bestaat onder wetenschappers discussie. Daarom is het nauwkeuriger om te spreken van één van de oudste nog bestaande Koranmanuscripten ter wereld dan simpelweg van de oudste. In 2000 werd de historische Mushaf van Uthman opgenomen in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register, als erkenning van de uitzonderlijke documentaire en culturele betekenis van het manuscript.
A Torre de Hassan e os vestígios da mesquita inacabada em Rabat, Marrocos, constituem um dos exemplos mais relevantes da arquitetura almóada do século XII. A construção foi iniciada em 1195 pelo califa Yaqub al-Mansur, com a intenção de erguer o maior minarete e a maior mesquita do mundo islâmico ocidental; no entanto, a obra foi interrompida em 1199 após a sua morte, resultando numa torre com cerca de 44 metros, bem abaixo dos 80 planeados. O minarete, feito de arenito e adornado com complexos padrões geométricos do tipo sebka, destaca-se no panorama urbano. O vasto pátio circundante, pontuado por colunas truncadas que nunca sustentaram o teto da mesquita, abriga um impressionante conjunto arqueológico e simboliza a ambição dinástica dos almóadas. Classificado como Património Mundial da UNESCO em 1995, o local, que inclui o Mausoléu de Mohammed V, reflete a continuidade histórica entre o período medieval e a era moderna, sendo um espaço cívico e memorial em Rabat.
The Hassan Tower and the remains of the unfinished mosque in Rabat, Morocco, are one of the most important examples of 12th-century Almohad architecture. Construction began in 1195 under Caliph Yaqub al-Mansur, who intended to build the tallest minaret and largest mosque in the Western Islamic world. However, work was halted in 1199 after his death, resulting in a tower measuring approximately 44 meters, well below the planned 80 meters. The minaret, made of sandstone and adorned with complex sebka geometric patterns, stands out in the urban landscape. The vast surrounding courtyard, punctuated by truncated columns that never supported the mosque's roof, houses an impressive archaeological site and symbolizes the dynastic ambition of the Almohads. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, the site, which includes the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, reflects the historical continuity between the medieval period and the modern era, serving as a civic and memorial space in Rabat.
photo rights reserved by Ben
At the entrance of the Hazrati Imam Jome Mosque in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, two visitors pause for a conversation before entering. It is one of those small everyday moments that caught my attention between all the monumental architecture of the complex. The Hazrati Imam Complex is the religious heart of Tashkent's Old City. The ensemble developed around the mausoleum of Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, a highly respected 10th-century Islamic scholar. Over the centuries, several important religious buildings were constructed here, including the Barak Khan Madrasah, Tillya Sheikh Mosque, Muyi Muborak Madrasah and the large Hazrati Imam Mosque. The present Hazrati Imam Mosque was completed in 2007 and, despite its relatively young age, was designed in the traditional architectural style of Central Asia, with two minarets, turquoise domes and beautifully decorated wooden columns. One of the greatest treasures associated with the complex is the famous Uthman Quran, traditionally dated to the 7th century and regarded as one of the oldest surviving Quran manuscripts in the world. Hazrati Imam is not merely a historical attraction. It remains an important place of worship, and visitors are expected to dress respectfully when entering the religious buildings. Signs at the entrances clearly explain the appropriate dress code for both men and women. Amid all the history, domes, mosaics and monumental architecture, scenes like this remind you that Hazrati Imam is still very much a living religious place.
A quiet conversation at the entrance of Hazrati Imam in Tashkent — a small moment that doesn't escape the photographer's eye.
Bij de ingang van de Hazrati Imam Jome-moskee in Tashkent, Oezbekistan staan twee bezoekers nog even met elkaar te praten voordat ze naar binnen gaan. Tussen alle monumentale architectuur van het complex trok juist dit kleine, alledaagse moment de aandacht van beide fotografen — waarbij ik ook de andere fotograaf onderdeel van het moment liet worden. Het Hazrati Imam-complex vormt het religieuze hart van de oude stad van Tashkent. Het complex ontwikkelde zich rond het mausoleum van Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, een zeer gerespecteerde islamitische geleerde uit de 10e eeuw. Door de eeuwen heen verschenen hier verschillende belangrijke religieuze gebouwen, waaronder de Barak Khan-madrassa, Tillya Sheikh-moskee, Muyi Muborak-madrassa en de grote Hazrati Imam-moskee. De huidige Hazrati Imam-moskee werd voltooid in 2007. Ondanks zijn relatief jonge leeftijd werd het gebouw ontworpen in de traditionele bouwstijl van Centraal-Azië, met twee minaretten, turquoise koepels en prachtig gedecoreerde houten zuilen. Een van de grootste schatten die met het complex wordt geassocieerd is de beroemde Uthman-Koran. Dit manuscript wordt traditioneel gedateerd in de 7e eeuw en geldt als een van de oudste bewaard gebleven koranmanuscripten ter wereld. Hazrati Imam is niet alleen een historische bezienswaardigheid. Het is nog altijd een belangrijk religieus centrum en gebedshuis. Bezoekers worden daarom gevraagd zich respectvol te kleden. Bij de ingangen staan borden waarop de kledingvoorschriften voor mannen en vrouwen duidelijk worden aangegeven.
A little tribute from me to The Martyrs of Karbala on the night of 10 Moharram 1436 Hijri i.e. 04 November 2014.
We must not forget the message of worshiping only One God i.e. none but Allah. The message that Imam Husain (3rd among 12) provoked in the hearts and thoughts of the human being by sacrificing not only his own but his companions' and his family's lives as well. Not only this, but his holy family was also disgraced by Yazid and his army.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karimabad_(Hunza)
Karimabad (Urdu: كريم آباد) is the capital of Hunza in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Karimabad is also known as Baltit. It is named after Prince Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual head of Shia Ismaili Nizari community. It is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan and it swarms with tourists from all around the world during summers. It provides spectacular views of many beautiful mountains like Rakaposhi. The Guardian ranked it as the 4th Best Tourist Site in Pakistan.[1]
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunza_Valley
Spectacular scenery
)Hunza is one of the most impressive places in the world. Several high peaks rise above 6,000 metres (20,000 ft) in the surroundings of Hunza valley. The valley provides spectacular views of some of the most beautiful and magnificent mountains of the world which include Rakaposhi 7,788 metres (25,551 ft), Ultar Sar 7,388 metres (24,239 ft), Bojahagur Duanasir II 7,329 metres (24,045 ft), Ghenta Sar 7,090 metres (23,261 ft), Hunza Peak 6,270 metres (20,571 ft), Darmyani Peak 6,090 metres (19,980 ft), and Bublimating (Ladyfinger Peak) 6,000 metres (19,685 ft). Hunza Valley is also host to the ancient watch towers in Ganish , Baltit Fort and Altit Fort. Watch towers are located in heart of Ganish Village, Baltit Fort stands on top of Karimabad whereas Altit Fort lies at the bottom of the valley.
The valley is popularly believed to be the inspiration for the mythical valley of Shangri-la in James Hilton's 1933 novel Lost Horizon. As one travels up on the Karakoram Highway, the beautiful sceneries keep on revealing themselves. On the way one can witness the 65 kilometres (40 mi) long 'Batura' glacier, the second longest in Pakistan, surround by Shishper, Batura and Kumpirdior peaks. On reaching Sost one can continue the journey up to Khunzhrav or turn west to witness the mystic beauty of Chipursan (also Chapursan) valley. Chipursan valley has some of most exotic tourist spots in the area. In Yarzerech (also Yarzirich) you can have a look at the majestic Kundahill peak (6,000 metres (19,685 ft)), or trek along the Rishepzhurav to the Kundahill to experience the soothing sceneries. Beyond Yarzerech one can travel further to Lupghar, Raminj, Reshit, Yishkuk up to Bobo Ghundi (Oston), the shrine of Baba-e-Ghund, a saint from Afghanistan near the border between Pakistan and Wakhan region of Afghanistan.
A Torre Hassan e o vasto conjunto de colunas da mesquita inacabada em Rabat, Marrocos, constituem um dos exemplos mais significativos da arquitetura almóada do século XII. Iniciada em 1195 pelo califa Abu Yusuf Yaqub al‑Mansur, a estrutura foi projetada para ser a maior mesquita do mundo islâmico ocidental da época, com um minarete destinado a figurar entre os mais altos do mundo islâmico. No entanto, a construção foi permanentemente interrompida após a morte do califa em 1199, deixando o minarete com apenas 44 metros de altura, cerca de metade dos 86 metros originalmente planeados. A torre, construída em arenito avermelhado, exibe nas suas fachadas complexos relevos geométricos e padrões de sebka, elementos distintivos da arte mourisca e magrebina. O adro circundante está preenchido por uma grelha simétrica de colunas de pedra truncadas que delineariam o enorme salão de orações hipostilo que nunca chegou a receber o seu teto. Este local histórico, hoje integrado no sítio “Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City: a Shared Heritage”, classificado como Património Mundial da UNESCO, permanece como um símbolo da ambição dinástica e da história interrompida da capital marroquina.
The Hassan Tower and the vast array of columns of the unfinished mosque in Rabat, Morocco, are one of the most significant examples of 12th-century Almohad architecture. Begun in 1195 by Caliph Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur, the structure was designed to be the largest mosque in the Western Islamic world at the time, with a minaret intended to be among the tallest in the Islamic world. However, construction was permanently halted after the caliph's death in 1199, leaving the minaret only 44 meters high, about half of the 86 meters originally planned. The tower, built in reddish sandstone, displays complex geometric reliefs and sebka patterns on its facades, distinctive elements of Moorish and Maghreb art. The surrounding courtyard is filled with a symmetrical grid of truncated stone columns that would have outlined the huge hypostyle prayer hall that never received its ceiling. This historic site, now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City: a Shared Heritage,” remains a symbol of dynastic ambition and the interrupted history of the Moroccan capital.
Th town of Baltit was the traditional capital of Hunza and the home of the Mirs of Hunza, the royal family. It consisted of the fort and some houses around it. Baltit fort was built some 600-800 years ago and then in 1900 the balcony and interior comforts were added. The fort was in near collapse when it was vacated in the 1940's by the royal family who used to live there. A joint British and Pakistani team have managed to restore it. The royal family moved to better quarters in Karimabad, a sort of modern extension of Baltit which was named after Prince Karim.
Quite contrary to the propaganda spread outside of China, the Chinese people have a pretty continuous thousands of years of tolerance toward real religions, even those coming from abroad. This I experienced first hand living and exploring there as a Muslim throughout most of the 2010s. Such that it wasn't only Buddhism which penetrated deep into the Middle Kingdom from India, but also Islam was protected and allowed to spread ever since the Song dynasty.
I was profoundly surprised and touched to find these ancient tombs of purported companions of Mohammad the Prophet, Zafar Sadiq and Imam Hashim, in a beautifully kept hillside park in Quanzhou, well into the South East coast of China and a former epicenter of the Maritime Silk Road, and to observe the cultural and religious syncretism walking among those green shrouds with Islamic calligraphy with incense lit under a formidable Chinese styled mausoleum.
Check out my albums:
---------------------------------
• Top 2%, with my best photos ever
• All my photos in Explore
• My best selling photos
• All my photos used on book covers
• My own wonders of the world
Visit me also in Facebook and Instagram
©2020 German Vogel - All rights reserved - No usage allowed in any form without the written consent of the photographer.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karimabad_(Hunza)
Karimabad (Urdu: كريم آباد) is the capital of Hunza in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Karimabad is also known as Baltit. It is named after Prince Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual head of Shia Ismaili Nizari community. It is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan and it swarms with tourists from all around the world during summers. It provides spectacular views of many beautiful mountains like Rakaposhi. The Guardian ranked it as the 4th Best Tourist Site in Pakistan.[1]
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunza_Valley
Spectacular scenery
)Hunza is one of the most impressive places in the world. Several high peaks rise above 6,000 metres (20,000 ft) in the surroundings of Hunza valley. The valley provides spectacular views of some of the most beautiful and magnificent mountains of the world which include Rakaposhi 7,788 metres (25,551 ft), Ultar Sar 7,388 metres (24,239 ft), Bojahagur Duanasir II 7,329 metres (24,045 ft), Ghenta Sar 7,090 metres (23,261 ft), Hunza Peak 6,270 metres (20,571 ft), Darmyani Peak 6,090 metres (19,980 ft), and Bublimating (Ladyfinger Peak) 6,000 metres (19,685 ft). Hunza Valley is also host to the ancient watch towers in Ganish , Baltit Fort and Altit Fort. Watch towers are located in heart of Ganish Village, Baltit Fort stands on top of Karimabad whereas Altit Fort lies at the bottom of the valley.
The valley is popularly believed to be the inspiration for the mythical valley of Shangri-la in James Hilton's 1933 novel Lost Horizon. As one travels up on the Karakoram Highway, the beautiful sceneries keep on revealing themselves. On the way one can witness the 65 kilometres (40 mi) long 'Batura' glacier, the second longest in Pakistan, surround by Shishper, Batura and Kumpirdior peaks. On reaching Sost one can continue the journey up to Khunzhrav or turn west to witness the mystic beauty of Chipursan (also Chapursan) valley. Chipursan valley has some of most exotic tourist spots in the area. In Yarzerech (also Yarzirich) you can have a look at the majestic Kundahill peak (6,000 metres (19,685 ft)), or trek along the Rishepzhurav to the Kundahill to experience the soothing sceneries. Beyond Yarzerech one can travel further to Lupghar, Raminj, Reshit, Yishkuk up to Bobo Ghundi (Oston), the shrine of Baba-e-Ghund, a saint from Afghanistan near the border between Pakistan and Wakhan region of Afghanistan.
Th town of Baltit was the traditional capital of Hunza and the home of the Mirs of Hunza, the royal family. It consisted of the fort and some houses around it. Baltit fort was built some 600-800 years ago and then in 1900 the balcony and interior comforts were added. The fort was in near collapse when it was vacated in the 1940's by the royal family who used to live there. A joint British and Pakistani team have managed to restore it. The royal family moved to better quarters in Karimabad, a sort of modern extension of Baltit which was named after Prince Karim.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karimabad_(Hunza)
Karimabad (Urdu: كريم آباد) is the capital of Hunza in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Karimabad is also known as Baltit. It is named after Prince Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual head of Shia Ismaili Nizari community. It is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan and it swarms with tourists from all around the world during summers. It provides spectacular views of many beautiful mountains like Rakaposhi. The Guardian ranked it as the 4th Best Tourist Site in Pakistan.[1]
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunza_Valley
Spectacular scenery
)Hunza is one of the most impressive places in the world. Several high peaks rise above 6,000 metres (20,000 ft) in the surroundings of Hunza valley. The valley provides spectacular views of some of the most beautiful and magnificent mountains of the world which include Rakaposhi 7,788 metres (25,551 ft), Ultar Sar 7,388 metres (24,239 ft), Bojahagur Duanasir II 7,329 metres (24,045 ft), Ghenta Sar 7,090 metres (23,261 ft), Hunza Peak 6,270 metres (20,571 ft), Darmyani Peak 6,090 metres (19,980 ft), and Bublimating (Ladyfinger Peak) 6,000 metres (19,685 ft). Hunza Valley is also host to the ancient watch towers in Ganish , Baltit Fort and Altit Fort. Watch towers are located in heart of Ganish Village, Baltit Fort stands on top of Karimabad whereas Altit Fort lies at the bottom of the valley.
The valley is popularly believed to be the inspiration for the mythical valley of Shangri-la in James Hilton's 1933 novel Lost Horizon. As one travels up on the Karakoram Highway, the beautiful sceneries keep on revealing themselves. On the way one can witness the 65 kilometres (40 mi) long 'Batura' glacier, the second longest in Pakistan, surround by Shishper, Batura and Kumpirdior peaks. On reaching Sost one can continue the journey up to Khunzhrav or turn west to witness the mystic beauty of Chipursan (also Chapursan) valley. Chipursan valley has some of most exotic tourist spots in the area. In Yarzerech (also Yarzirich) you can have a look at the majestic Kundahill peak (6,000 metres (19,685 ft)), or trek along the Rishepzhurav to the Kundahill to experience the soothing sceneries. Beyond Yarzerech one can travel further to Lupghar, Raminj, Reshit, Yishkuk up to Bobo Ghundi (Oston), the shrine of Baba-e-Ghund, a saint from Afghanistan near the border between Pakistan and Wakhan region of Afghanistan.
This image was taken just steps from one of Uzbekistan's most revered religious sites: the Hazrati Imam Complex. The turquoise dome is part of one of its historic buildings and a centuries-old ensemble of mosques, madrasas, and mausoleums.
The complex is also home to the Uthman Quran, believed to be the world's oldest surviving manuscript of the Koran, dating back to the 7th century. Built on the burial site of Hazrati Imam (also known as Kaffal Shashi), a respected Islamic scholar and poet, the complex has long been a center of religious life in Tashkent. It continues to serve as a place of worship and a symbol of Uzbekistan's Islamic heritage.
Framing the dome between modern and traditional structures, I focused on geometric shapes and soft light to offer a quieter, more abstract view of a place steeped in spiritual history.
The engraved stone reads: "A stele erected by the Fujian People's Government in 1961 declaring the Longshan Holy Tomb to be a key relic in the safe-keeping of the provincial authorities."
Quite contrary to the propaganda spread outside of China, the Chinese people have a pretty continuous thousands of years of tolerance toward real religions, even those coming from abroad. This I experienced first hand living and exploring there as a Muslim throughout most of the 2010s. Such that it wasn't only Buddhism which penetrated deep into the Middle Kingdom from India, but also Islam was protected and allowed to spread ever since the Song dynasty.
I was profoundly surprised and touched to find these ancient tombs of purported companions of Mohammad the Prophet, Zafar Sadiq and Imam Hashim, in a beautifully kept hillside park in Quanzhou, well into the South East coast of China and a former epicenter of the Maritime Silk Road, and to observe the cultural and religious syncretism walking among those green shrouds with Islamic calligraphy with incense lit under a formidable Chinese styled mausoleum.
Check out my albums:
---------------------------------
• Top 2%, with my best photos ever
• All my photos in Explore
• My best selling photos
• All my photos used on book covers
• My own wonders of the world
Visit me also in Facebook and Instagram
©2020 German Vogel - All rights reserved - No usage allowed in any form without the written consent of the photographer.
Under construction since 2018, this impressive new landmark rises next to the historic Hazrati Imam Complex—the religious heart of Tashkent and one of Uzbekistan's most important Islamic sites. The Hazrati Imam Complex houses ancient mosques, madrasas, and the famous Uthman Quran, considered one of the world's oldest copies of the holy book.
Once completed, the new center will serve as a mosque and a cultural and educational hub for the region. The main building, which is 145 meters long, is topped by a striking 64-meter-high dome that already defines the modern skyline of the capital.
Inside, the complex will include a museum with five themed halls covering everything from pre-Islamic heritage to the Timurid Renaissance, as well as a library that will house more than 100,000 manuscripts and digital archives.
Unlike many parts of Western Europe, churches are often deconsecrated or repurposed as secular spaces. Uzbekistan has seen a religious revival since gaining independence in 1991. After decades of Soviet-era restrictions, people here have once again embraced religious practice, particularly Islam, which is deeply woven into the country's identity and history.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltit_Fort
Baltit Fort or Balti Fort is an ancient fort in the Hunza valley in the Northern Areas of Pakistan.
In former times survival of the feudal regimes of Hunza was ensured by the impressive Baltit fort, that sit on top of Karimabad. The foundations of the fort are said to date back around 700 years, but there have been rebuilds and alterations over the centuries. In the 16th century the Thum married a princess from Baltistan who brought master Balti craftsmen to renovate the building as part of her dowry. The architectural style is a clear indication of Tibetan influence in Baltistan at the time.
The Mirs of Hunza abandoned the fort in 1945, and moved to a new palace down the hill. The fort started to decay and there was concern that it might possibly fall into ruin. Following a survey by the Royal Geographical Society of London, a restoration programme was initiated and supported by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture Historic Cities Support Programme. The programme was completed in 1996 and the fort is now a museum run by the Baltit Heritage Trust.
Historical background
Baltit Fort, the former residence of the Mirs of Hunza
In olden times a number of small independent states existed in the history of Northern Areas of Pakistan. Among them Hunza and Nager were the traditional rival states, situated on opposite sides of the Hunza (kanjut) river. The rulers of these two states, known as Thámo / Mirs (Thάm=S), built various strongholds to express their power. According to historical sources (Ref: Tarikh-e-Ehd Atiiq Riyasat Hunza by Haji Qudrarullah Baig, Pub: S.T.Printers Rawalpindi 1980 Pakistan), the Hunza rulers initially resided in the Altit Fort, but later as a result of a conflict between the two sons of the ruler Sultan, Shah Abbas (Shάboos) and Ali Khan (Aliqhάn), Shaboos shifted to the Baltit Fort, making it the capital seat of Hunza. The power struggle between the two brothers eventually resulted in the death of younger one, and so Baltit Fort further established itself as the prime seat of power in the Hunza state.
The rich beauty of Baltit Fort can be traced to over seven hundred 700 years ago. Ayasho II, Tham / Mir of Hunza in the early 15th fifteenth century married Princess Shah Khatoon (Sha Qhatun) from Baltistan (In Moghul history Baltistan is called Tibet Khurd mean, little Tibet), and was the first to modify the face of Altit and, subsequently Baltit Fort. Baltistan meaning land of Balti people had a very strong cultural and ethnical relation with the Ladakh territory of India then. Consequently, the structure of Baltit Fort was influenced by the Ladakhi / Tibetan architecture, with some resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Then additions, renovations and changes to the building were being made through the centuries by the long line of rulers of the Hunza that followed.
A veritable treasure house for ancient forts, the Northern Areas of Pakistan lost most of its glorious built heritage around the 19th century as a result of the destructive attacks by the Maharaja of Kashmir. However, in this regard people of Hunza were exceptionally fortunate to successfully defend against the invasions of Maharaja Kashmir four times. One of the biggest changes in the structure of Baltit Fort came with the invasion of the British in December 1891. Tham / Mir Safdarali Khan, ruler of Hunza his wazir Dadu (Thara Baig III), fled to Kashgar (China) for political asylum with their fellows and families. With the conquest of Hunza and Nager states by the British forces in December 1891, the fortified wall and watch towers of the old Baltit village and watch towers of the Baltit Fort on its north-western end were also demolished as desired by the British authorities. The British installed his younger brother Tham / Mir Sir Muhammad Nazim Khan K.C.I.E, as the ruler of Hunza state in September 1892 [1].
During his reign, Tham / Mir Nazeem Khan made several major alterations to the Baltit Fort. He demolished a number of rooms of third floor and added a few rooms in the British colonial style on the front elevation, using lime wash and colour glass panel windows. The Baltit Fort remained officially inhabited until 1945, when the last ruler of Hunza, Mir Muhammad Jmamal Khan, moved to a new palace further down the hill, where the present Mir of Hunza Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan (Current Chief Executive of Northern Areas) and his family are residing.
With no proper authority entrusted to care for it, the Fort was exposed to the ravages of time and over the years its structure weakened and began to deteriorate. His Highness Aga Khan IV initiated the restoration efforts for Baltit Fort in 1990, when Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan the son of last ruler of Hunza, Tham / Mir Muhammad Jamal Khan and his family generously donated the Fort to the Baltit Heritage Trust, a public charity formed for the explicit purpose of owning and maintaining the Fort. The restoration undertaken by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in Geneva in association with the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (Pakistan), took six years to complete. The project was supported by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture as the main donor through its Historic Cities Support Programme, as well as by the Getty Grant Program (USA), NORAD (Norway) and the French Government.
The restored Fort, resplendent in its regal glory was inaugurated on September 29, 1996 in the presence of His Highness the Aga Khan IV and the president of Pakistan Farooq Ahmad Khan Laghari. It is now operated and maintained by the Baltit Heritage Trust and is open to visitors. Preservation at its best, the Baltit Fort serves as a perfect example of culture restored and preserved for the future generations of the mountain people.
Awards and recognition
2005 Time Magazine Asia, Best of Asia Award[2]
2004 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards for Cultural Conservation - Award of Excellence (see profile)[3]
2000 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards: Global Winner[4][5]
Bibliography
Baig Qudratullah, Tarikh-e-Edh Atiiq Riyāsat Hunza Pub: S.T.rinters Rawalpindi-Pakistan 1980
Dani A.H, History of Northern Areas of Pakistan Pub: Sang-e-Meel Publications, Lahore Pakistan www.sang-e-meel.com, Reprinted: 2007).
Biddulph John, Tribes of Hindoo Koosh Pub: The Superintendent of Government Printing-Calcutta India 1880, Reprint: Ali Kamran Publishers, Lahore-Pakistan 1995.
Credit: The "Historical Background" chapter was contributed by Hunza – Baltit Fort curator E.U.Baig (kanjudi@gmail.com)
This former madrasa, once a center of Islamic education, now serves a different purpose. Its historic cells have been repurposed into small shops selling traditional crafts, ceramics, and textiles — part of a broader trend across Uzbekistan where heritage sites are preserved but adapted for cultural tourism.
While souvenir shops can add charm and accessibility to historical sites, they quickly become repetitive when every shop offers the same products. What starts as authentic can easily feel over-commercialized. As Uzbekistan welcomes more visitors, it still needs to find the right balance between showcasing its rich heritage and preserving each site's uniqueness.
In the background, the blue-striped Center of Islamic Civilization dome is still under construction. I chose this composition carefully — one of the few places where I could frame the new dome cleanly, without cranes or construction fences.
The richly tiled dome in the foreground belongs to the older structure. Together, they create a visual contrast between preserved tradition and a modern effort to shape the future of Islamic scholarship in the region.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltit_Fort
Baltit Fort or Balti Fort is an ancient fort in the Hunza valley in the Northern Areas of Pakistan.
In former times survival of the feudal regimes of Hunza was ensured by the impressive Baltit fort, that sit on top of Karimabad. The foundations of the fort are said to date back around 700 years, but there have been rebuilds and alterations over the centuries. In the 16th century the Thum married a princess from Baltistan who brought master Balti craftsmen to renovate the building as part of her dowry. The architectural style is a clear indication of Tibetan influence in Baltistan at the time.
The Mirs of Hunza abandoned the fort in 1945, and moved to a new palace down the hill. The fort started to decay and there was concern that it might possibly fall into ruin. Following a survey by the Royal Geographical Society of London, a restoration programme was initiated and supported by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture Historic Cities Support Programme. The programme was completed in 1996 and the fort is now a museum run by the Baltit Heritage Trust.
Historical background
Baltit Fort, the former residence of the Mirs of Hunza
In olden times a number of small independent states existed in the history of Northern Areas of Pakistan. Among them Hunza and Nager were the traditional rival states, situated on opposite sides of the Hunza (kanjut) river. The rulers of these two states, known as Thámo / Mirs (Thάm=S), built various strongholds to express their power. According to historical sources (Ref: Tarikh-e-Ehd Atiiq Riyasat Hunza by Haji Qudrarullah Baig, Pub: S.T.Printers Rawalpindi 1980 Pakistan), the Hunza rulers initially resided in the Altit Fort, but later as a result of a conflict between the two sons of the ruler Sultan, Shah Abbas (Shάboos) and Ali Khan (Aliqhάn), Shaboos shifted to the Baltit Fort, making it the capital seat of Hunza. The power struggle between the two brothers eventually resulted in the death of younger one, and so Baltit Fort further established itself as the prime seat of power in the Hunza state.
The rich beauty of Baltit Fort can be traced to over seven hundred 700 years ago. Ayasho II, Tham / Mir of Hunza in the early 15th fifteenth century married Princess Shah Khatoon (Sha Qhatun) from Baltistan (In Moghul history Baltistan is called Tibet Khurd mean, little Tibet), and was the first to modify the face of Altit and, subsequently Baltit Fort. Baltistan meaning land of Balti people had a very strong cultural and ethnical relation with the Ladakh territory of India then. Consequently, the structure of Baltit Fort was influenced by the Ladakhi / Tibetan architecture, with some resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Then additions, renovations and changes to the building were being made through the centuries by the long line of rulers of the Hunza that followed.
A veritable treasure house for ancient forts, the Northern Areas of Pakistan lost most of its glorious built heritage around the 19th century as a result of the destructive attacks by the Maharaja of Kashmir. However, in this regard people of Hunza were exceptionally fortunate to successfully defend against the invasions of Maharaja Kashmir four times. One of the biggest changes in the structure of Baltit Fort came with the invasion of the British in December 1891. Tham / Mir Safdarali Khan, ruler of Hunza his wazir Dadu (Thara Baig III), fled to Kashgar (China) for political asylum with their fellows and families. With the conquest of Hunza and Nager states by the British forces in December 1891, the fortified wall and watch towers of the old Baltit village and watch towers of the Baltit Fort on its north-western end were also demolished as desired by the British authorities. The British installed his younger brother Tham / Mir Sir Muhammad Nazim Khan K.C.I.E, as the ruler of Hunza state in September 1892 [1].
During his reign, Tham / Mir Nazeem Khan made several major alterations to the Baltit Fort. He demolished a number of rooms of third floor and added a few rooms in the British colonial style on the front elevation, using lime wash and colour glass panel windows. The Baltit Fort remained officially inhabited until 1945, when the last ruler of Hunza, Mir Muhammad Jmamal Khan, moved to a new palace further down the hill, where the present Mir of Hunza Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan (Current Chief Executive of Northern Areas) and his family are residing.
With no proper authority entrusted to care for it, the Fort was exposed to the ravages of time and over the years its structure weakened and began to deteriorate. His Highness Aga Khan IV initiated the restoration efforts for Baltit Fort in 1990, when Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan the son of last ruler of Hunza, Tham / Mir Muhammad Jamal Khan and his family generously donated the Fort to the Baltit Heritage Trust, a public charity formed for the explicit purpose of owning and maintaining the Fort. The restoration undertaken by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in Geneva in association with the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (Pakistan), took six years to complete. The project was supported by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture as the main donor through its Historic Cities Support Programme, as well as by the Getty Grant Program (USA), NORAD (Norway) and the French Government.
The restored Fort, resplendent in its regal glory was inaugurated on September 29, 1996 in the presence of His Highness the Aga Khan IV and the president of Pakistan Farooq Ahmad Khan Laghari. It is now operated and maintained by the Baltit Heritage Trust and is open to visitors. Preservation at its best, the Baltit Fort serves as a perfect example of culture restored and preserved for the future generations of the mountain people.
Awards and recognition
2005 Time Magazine Asia, Best of Asia Award[2]
2004 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards for Cultural Conservation - Award of Excellence (see profile)[3]
2000 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards: Global Winner[4][5]
Bibliography
Baig Qudratullah, Tarikh-e-Edh Atiiq Riyāsat Hunza Pub: S.T.rinters Rawalpindi-Pakistan 1980
Dani A.H, History of Northern Areas of Pakistan Pub: Sang-e-Meel Publications, Lahore Pakistan www.sang-e-meel.com, Reprinted: 2007).
Biddulph John, Tribes of Hindoo Koosh Pub: The Superintendent of Government Printing-Calcutta India 1880, Reprint: Ali Kamran Publishers, Lahore-Pakistan 1995.
Credit: The "Historical Background" chapter was contributed by Hunza – Baltit Fort curator E.U.Baig (kanjudi@gmail.com)
Aleppo Citadel , which dominates the whole skyline of Aleppo stand arrogantly overlooking the Old City of Aleppo. The construction is very massive and consists of mosque, hammam, living quarters, amphitheatre and administration offices . One of the public attractions when we visit to Aleppo. Entrance is SYP 150, which was reduced from SYP 300 when I visited about 5 years ago.
Location : Aleppo Citadel, Aleppo - Syria
In going through more of my photos from a trip I made to Spain two summers ago, I've found yet another that's decent enough to upload. One of the more recognizable parts of the Alhambra in Granada, Spain is a section known as the "Hall of the Ambassadors." It was in this area that Moorish leaders met with dignitaries from other parts of the world.
The room is magnificent, luxurious, and geometrically sublime. I took three varying exposures of light entering through some of the intricate windows along the walls and upon processing them, this image was the final result.
Some places force you to sit and wait. Others get the best out from you. Chowkandi does both to a photographer. It is an Islamic site where Muslim rulers and their subjects used to bury their dead. More precious the body, more elaborate its stones and more intricate its carvings.
This wonderful graveyard, one of 51 Chowkandi sites spread in Sindh and Baluchistan provinces, is a classic example of itself. You will be mesmerized by the lengths at which man can and decorate their dead. The workmanship is superb. And details are just too much for a newcomer.
Unfortunately, some of the precious stones have been stolen from the site and smuggled abroad. One may also find these carved bricks / stones in the drawing rooms of various politicians and officers. Such are the ways of the living. They steal the stones from the dead!
Muharram is the first month of Islamic lunar calendar, Hijrah. It is one of the four months that have been designated as Holy according to the Islamic belief, the other three being - Dhul-Qa'adah (Zulqa'dah), Dhul-Hijjah (Zulhijjah) and Rajab. However the first ten days of the month are considered as most sacred. Fasting is advocated in the month of Muharram, but the fasting on the tenth day of Muharram, called Ashura, is particularly important, as it is supposed to lead to great rewards.
Muharram is an important month to the people of Islamic faith. Many auspicious events of Quranic history are believed to have taken place during this month, specially during the tenth day. Some of the events are: The Prophet Adam was born and his repentance was accepted on this day, the Prophet Abraham was saved from the Fire, the Prophet Ishmael was delivered from the Sacrifice, the Prophet Joseph was reunited with his father, the Prophet Job was cured of his illness and the Prophet Solomon was ordained as king; however no accurate historical evidences could be found for them.
Shiite Muslims observes the first ten days of Muharram to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family, the grandson of the holy Prophet. Hence Muharram is not a festival in the celebratory sense to the sect as it mourns the Karbala tragedy. Muslims build paper and bamboo replica of the martyr's tomb, called Tajiya or Tazia, and carry them into the street in a procession to mourn Imam Hussain's brutal assassination. Mourners walk barefoot, beat their chests and cry out the name of Imam Hussain. Some plaintive verses are recited to signify that Hussain and his family had to suffer terrible thirst during their murder. The youths whip them with chains or hit them with knives to draw blood out of their body to symbolize the physical pangs that Imam Hussain had to suffer. Horses decorated as a battle horse with swords, etc. are also taken out in the procession in memory of Hussain's horse, Dul Dul.
Sunni Muslims also commemorate Imam Hussain's martyrdom but in a less demonstrative manner, concentrating instead on its spiritual aspect.
The word Muharram is derived from the word Haram, which actually means forbidden; it also means respect. Hence the month of Muharram encourages people to forbid themselves from all worldly pleasures and to respect the great children of the Mother Earth by commemorating their sacrifices towards the establishment of Truth and Justice.
Original can be found in: LANE-POOLE, STANLEY - The Mohammedan dynasties: chronological and genealogical tables (London:1894)
at:
www.archive.org/details/mohammadandynast00lane
(have altered dimensions to fit screen)
Muharram is the first month of Islamic lunar calendar, Hijrah. It is one of the four months that have been designated as Holy according to the Islamic belief, the other three being - Dhul-Qa'adah (Zulqa'dah), Dhul-Hijjah (Zulhijjah) and Rajab. However the first ten days of the month are considered as most sacred. Fasting is advocated in the month of Muharram, but the fasting on the tenth day of Muharram, called Ashura, is particularly important, as it is supposed to lead to great rewards.
Muharram is an important month to the people of Islamic faith. Many auspicious events of Quranic history are believed to have taken place during this month, specially during the tenth day. Some of the events are: The Prophet Adam was born and his repentance was accepted on this day, the Prophet Abraham was saved from the Fire, the Prophet Ishmael was delivered from the Sacrifice, the Prophet Joseph was reunited with his father, the Prophet Job was cured of his illness and the Prophet Solomon was ordained as king; however no accurate historical evidences could be found for them.
Shiite Muslims observes the first ten days of Muharram to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family, the grandson of the holy Prophet. Hence Muharram is not a festival in the celebratory sense to the sect as it mourns the Karbala tragedy. Muslims build paper and bamboo replica of the martyr's tomb, called Tajiya or Tazia, and carry them into the street in a procession to mourn Imam Hussain's brutal assassination. Mourners walk barefoot, beat their chests and cry out the name of Imam Hussain. Some plaintive verses are recited to signify that Hussain and his family had to suffer terrible thirst during their murder. The youths whip them with chains or hit them with knives to draw blood out of their body to symbolize the physical pangs that Imam Hussain had to suffer. Horses decorated as a battle horse with swords, etc. are also taken out in the procession in memory of Hussain's horse, Dul Dul.
Sunni Muslims also commemorate Imam Hussain's martyrdom but in a less demonstrative manner, concentrating instead on its spiritual aspect.
The word Muharram is derived from the word Haram, which actually means forbidden; it also means respect. Hence the month of Muharram encourages people to forbid themselves from all worldly pleasures and to respect the great children of the Mother Earth by commemorating their sacrifices towards the establishment of Truth and Justice.