The Khoja Ziyomurod Mosque is a rather young building; it was constructed not more than 100 years ago. However, earlier, in the 9th and the 10th centuries, there was another building on that site. When restoring the mosque, scientists discovered an ancient foundation. It was made of bricks joint together with clay mortar. As estimated by historians, it was constructed during the reign of Ahmad Sanjar, the Sultan of the Seljuq Empire.
Previously, that mosque had a dome. However, the weather and time destroyed it. Later the roof was changed; the new floors were made of wooden beams. In the late 19th century, the landmark got a weather shelter in the form of iwan surrounding it. The iwan is supported by wooden pillars decorated with traditional carving. The ceiling of the iwan is covered with painting; its bright colors catch the eye.
This small building also reflects the architectural style that was traditional for Samarkand. The ancient foundation is supposed to be the remnant of an older mosque. There is a legend saying that Tamerlane brought there the remains of Saint George (Hazrat Jurjays) and buried him in that place. A tomb even existed on the territory of the mosque.
However, in the early 20th century, when Uzbekistan became the Republic of the USSR, the tomb was destroyed. Despite that, the mosque kept functioning, and believers continued to offer prayers within its walls.
In 1992, the building was restored. The mosque is still used for its intended purpose. There is a belief that a prayer uttered in the Khoja Ziyomurod Mosque will certainly help to get what you want, but only if the worshipper is well-intentioned. In such a case, this will happen very soon, that is why the mosque is called Ziyomurod (Zudmurod), which means “fast fulfillment of wishes”.
The mosque is located not far from the Registan Square and the famous Siab Bazaar. You will easily get there. Nearby there is a tram route going along all famous attractions of Samarkand. You can also walk from the Registan Square along Dagbit Street. It will take you 10-15 minutes to get there by foot, but in this short time you will be able to feel the spirit of ancient Samarkand and fill your lungs with the air of the city standing on this place for more than 25 centuries.
Canaan Travel is proud to invite all travelers of the Earth to visit fabulous Uzbekistan, the abode of the legends of the East and global history, which is immortalized in its numerous monuments. We will take care of your vacation!