An architectural miracle through the centuries

🔴 A historical monument with a unique style

🔴 An architectural landmark comparable to the Kalan Minaret of Bukhara or the Vobkent Minaret

Uzbekistan is rich in historical monuments. One of such unique landmarks is located in the Jarkurgan district of Surkhandarya region. This architectural monument, adorned with Qur’anic verses and distinguished by its unique construction style, is considered one of the most valuable destinations for tourists, alongside the Kalan Minaret in Bukhara and the Vobkent Minaret.

A place in Uzbekistan’s mega project

The famous Jarkurgan Minaret in Surkhandarya, built in the 12th century specifically in 1108–1109 during the reign of the Seljuk ruler Sultan Sanjar was designed by the skilled architect Ali ibn Muhammad Sarakhsi. Historians have confirmed that the same information is inscribed in Kufic script at the lower part of the minaret.

Today, among the more than 80 historical models being created at the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, the model of the Jarkurgan Minaret also holds a special place. It is being prepared using modern technologies, based on archaeological and architectural measurements.

Unique construction style

The Jarkurgan Minaret stands out from other minarets with its extraordinary architectural design. Built on an octagonal foundation, its body is decorated with 16 half-columns. These columns give the structure the appearance of woven fabric. The bricks were laid both vertically and horizontally, forming marvelous patterns.

This method, known as “gofr”, is extremely rare in Eastern architecture, which is why the Jarkurgan Minaret holds special architectural value.

A Minaret adorned with Qur’anic verses

At the top of the minaret, the phrases “Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim” and verse 18 of Surah At-Tawba are inscribed in Kufic script between the bricks. This indicates that the structure was not only an architectural monument but also regarded as a sacred spiritual place.

A miracle reaching 50 meters in height

According to historical sources, the Jarkurgan Minaret originally stood at a height of 42–50 meters. Over time, due to natural disasters and human factors, part of it was destroyed, and today 21.6 meters remain preserved. Its base measures 5.4 meters in diameter, while the upper part measures 4.1 meters. Inside, a spiral staircase could be accessed through a special entrance.

A valuable destination for tourists

The Jarkurgan Minaret like the Kalan Minaret of Bukhara and the Vobkent Minaret is a bright example of Central Asian architecture. Its decorative solutions and geometric patterns share similarities with the architecture of Iran, Afghanistan, and India.

Today, the minaret is under state protection and has become one of the most fascinating sites for both local and foreign tourists.

Guzal Beknazarova

P/S: The article may be used by citing the official website of the Center.