Quran Exhibition

Overview

The Quran Exhibition, situated within the cultural heart of Tashkent's Hazrati Imam Complex area, offers an unparalleled journey into Islamic heritage. While traditionally associated with the historic Muyi Muborak Madrasah, the world-renowned Uthman Quran – a sacred manuscript believed to be one of the oldest in existence – has recently found a new, expansive home. As of late 2025 and early 2026, the original Uthman Quran was transferred to the newly inaugurated Center for Islamic Civilization, a grand complex adjacent to the Hazrati Imam Ensemble. This modern institution now serves as the primary 'Quran Exhibition' for this invaluable relic and a vast collection of other Islamic manuscripts, offering visitors a profound experience of spirituality and scholarship. The Muyi Muborak Madrasah, though no longer housing the original, still retains significant historical value and displays a revered copy of the ancient text alongside other valuable Quranic manuscripts, maintaining its legacy as a center of Quranic study.

History & Cultural Background

The Hazrati Imam Complex itself is a monumental architectural ensemble dating from the 16th to the 20th centuries, built around the tomb of Hazrati Imam (Abu Bakr Muhammad ibn Ali Ismail ash-Shashi), an esteemed scholar and one of Tashkent's first Islamic preachers. This 'Old City' district has long been a spiritual and intellectual hub. The history of the Uthman Quran is equally compelling. Written in the 7th century on deerskin, it is attributed to the era of the third Caliph, Uthman ibn Affan. Its journey to Tashkent is a tale spanning centuries and continents, believed to have been brought to Samarkand from Baghdad by Amir Timur in the 14th century. After being taken to St. Petersburg in the 19th century, it was returned to Uzbekistan in 1924, eventually finding its place in the Muyi Muborak Madrasah in 1989. Its recent move to the Center for Islamic Civilization marks a new chapter in its long and storied existence.

What Makes It Special

What truly makes the Quran Exhibition special is the Uthman Quran itself – a manuscript recognized by UNESCO's 'Memory of the World' Register for its global historical significance. It offers a tangible link to the earliest days of Islam, a sacred text revered by Muslims worldwide. The new Center for Islamic Civilization elevates this experience with cutting-edge museum technologies. Its dedicated Quran Hall, designed as the spiritual and architectural heart of the museum, showcases the original Uthman Quran under a grand dome. Beyond this singular relic, the exhibition boasts an impressive collection of 114 other rare Quran manuscripts from various historical periods and dynasties, illustrating the rich evolution of Islamic calligraphy and spiritual culture. Interactive displays, including a holographic system, immerse visitors in the history and significance of these sacred texts, transcending traditional museum presentations.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Legend holds that the Uthman Quran bears the bloodstains of Caliph Uthman, who was martyred while reading it – a detail that adds a poignant layer to its already profound history. The Muyi Muborak Madrasah, the former home of the Uthman Quran, translates to 'Madrasah of the Blessed Hair,' deriving its name from a relic believed to be a hair of the Prophet Muhammad also housed there. This historical context infuses the entire Hazrati Imam Complex with a deep sense of reverence. The architectural beauty of the complex, with its intricate tilework, towering minarets, and serene courtyards, provides a tranquil backdrop for contemplation, particularly enchanting in the evening when illuminated.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting the Quran Exhibition within the Hazrati Imam area is an enriching experience that transcends a typical museum visit. Guests are invited to step into a space where history, faith, and knowledge converge. The sheer scale and meticulous presentation at the Center for Islamic Civilization, with its expansive exhibition halls and advanced multimedia tools, create an immersive environment for exploring Uzbekistan's profound Islamic legacy. While the original Uthman Quran is displayed with utmost reverence, and close physical interaction or direct photography might be restricted for preservation, numerous copies and interactive materials ensure a comprehensive understanding. Whether one is a scholar, a person of faith, or simply a curious traveler, the exhibition offers a moving encounter with one of humanity's most significant cultural and religious treasures, revealing the depth of Central Asian contributions to Islamic civilization. The tranquil atmosphere of the Hazrati Imam Complex, complemented by the grandeur of the new Center, makes for a truly memorable visit.