Chor Bakr mosque

Chor Bakr mosque — a architectural monument in Bukhara. This mosque is located in the Chor Bakr architectural complex and was built in the 16th century by Abdullaxon II, a representative of the Shaybanid dynasty. The mosque is included in the national list of immovable objects of Uzbekistan's material and cultural heritage.

History

The mosque was built in the 16th century by Abdullaxon II, with construction work carried out in the Chor Bakr complex. The mosque is domed and consists of two‑storey chambers. The interior of the mosque was built in the shape of a flat arch. The mosque is situated between a madrasa and a khanqah. On the mosque’s portal there is a stone inscription containing verses 1‑4 of the Surah Al‑Isra of the Qur’an. The inscription letters are in cursive script and are decorated in a Koshinkori and brickwork style. The inscription reads: “God, one night, for his servant, to show him our signs‑miracles, took him on a blessed walk from Masjid al‑Harām to the blessed Masjid al‑Aqsa. Indeed, he is a being who hears and sees.” After Uzbekistan gained independence, restoration work was carried out on the Chor Bakr mosque.

Architecture

The Chor Bakr mosque was built in Central Asian style. In the construction of the mosque, baked brick, stone, wood and other materials were used. The height of the mosque’s portal is 20‑30 metres. The foundation is 12 metres. A layer of reed was placed on the mosque foundation, with the reed height being 50 centimetres. The main purpose of placing reed on the foundation of the monument is to prevent the building from being damaged by moisture and rot. Inside the building there is a mihrab decorated with various patterns. The doors of the Chor Bakr mosque are made of Bukhara’s qairaq wood. The qairaq wood of Bukhara is sturdy.