Qatar Museums Chairperson Sheikhha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani recently attended a signing ceremony in Uzbekistan to restore the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. The Qatar Fund for Development and the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation signed a grant agreement worth $4,175,000 to restore the mosque complex in Samarkand. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture will be overseeing the project, which aims to rebuild the mosque and provide job opportunities for the local community.
The Bibi-Khanym Mosque suffered severe damage after an earthquake in 1897, leading to the collapse of the inner arch of the main iwan and the destabilization of the main dome. The restoration project seeks to complete previous efforts and revive the mosque by offering training and teaching new skills to local workers. This will facilitate research and precise implementation plans using traditional building techniques to preserve the mosque and enhance economic empowerment in Uzbekistan.
During the signing ceremony, Sultan bin Ahmed Al Aseeri, Acting Director General of the Qatar Fund for Development, highlighted the fund’s commitment to supporting Uzbekistan through heritage preservation and job creation. The restoration of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque will not only protect the country’s heritage but also promote economic growth and boost tourism in a sustainable manner. This project aims to safeguard Uzbekistan’s history and culture for future generations.
Chairperson of Uzbekistan’s Art and Culture Development Foundation, Gayane Umerova, emphasized the importance of the project for preserving an architectural marvel and investing in the country’s cultural heritage and economic future. By engaging local communities in the restoration project, the foundation aims to create sustainable livelihoods that will benefit future generations. This collaborative effort between Uzbekistan and Qatar demonstrates a commitment to promoting sustainable economic growth and cultural preservation in the region.
The Qatar Fund for Development’s support for the restoration of cultural centers in Uzbekistan strengthens bilateral relations between the two countries. By collaborating with leading Uzbek institutions, the fund continues to contribute to the development and preservation of cultural heritage in the region. The restoration of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, a significant architectural landmark dating back to the 15th century, underscores the importance of reviving cultural heritage in Samarkand and the Islamic world.
This project represents a crucial step in revitalizing cultural heritage in Uzbekistan and promoting economic empowerment through job creation and sustainable restoration methods. The restoration of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque will not only preserve an architectural marvel but also contribute to the country’s cultural heritage and economic future. By engaging local communities and employing traditional building techniques, this project aims to safeguard Uzbekistan’s history and culture for future generations while boosting tourism and economic growth in the region.
