Djuma Mosque, situated in the heart of Khiva’s ancient city, stands as a monumental testimony to the spiritual and architectural heritage of Uzbekistan. This mosque, also known as Jami Mosque or Friday Mosque, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and religious significance.
Historical Background: Dating back to the late 10th century, Djuma Mosque has undergone several transformations over the centuries. The initial construction is attributed to the orders of the Samanid ruler Nuh Ibn Asad in the 960s. However, the current structure, with its distinct architectural features, is primarily a result of subsequent renovations during the 18th century.
Architectural Marvel: Djuma Mosque’s architecture is a mesmerizing fusion of various styles and influences. The mosque boasts a unique hypostyle hall without traditional domes or cupolas. Its most distinctive feature is the forest of 213 intricately carved wooden columns, each contributing to the mosque’s grandeur. These columns, adorned with geometric patterns and floral motifs, create a mesmerizing play of light and shadow within the vast prayer hall.
Entrance to the mosque is accessible from four directions, with a commanding 52-meter-high minaret gracing the northern facade, overlooking one of the city’s main thoroughfares.
Encircled by sturdy brick walls, the internal space unfolds as a singular hall, its level ceiling gracefully upheld by an impressive array of 215 wooden pillars. This architectural configuration, observed worldwide and across various epochs, finds resonance in illustrious structures such as the mosque in Afrasiab (tenth century), an Iranian mosque in Plain (tenth century), and the Khas-an Mosque in Rabat, Morocco (twelfth century). However, the Khiva Djuma mosque distinguishes itself through its original constructive plan and decor.
The ceiling features small openings strategically placed for both light and ventilation, a common feature in mosques globally. The facade exhibits open brickwork, while the interior is modestly plastered. Window spaces are adorned with realistic depictions of trees, bushes, and irises in black and red hues, symbolizing a desire for peace and tranquility in the monumental and decorative art of Central Asia. Irises, also employed in the artwork of Ferghana mosques and the Mamangan Khodja Amin Kabri, add cultural significance.
Of particular interest are the intricately carved doors and pillars of the mosque, constructed during different periods. Pillars from the tenth to eleventh centuries showcase deep, raised carvings with Kufi inscriptions. Moving forward, the eleventh to twelfth centuries present flatter ornamentation and smaller paintings adorned with flourishing Kufi inscriptions, emphasizing the sacred nature of the mosque’s possession. Pillars from the fifteenth century uniquely blend geometric and plant ornaments with Arabic script. The majority of pillars, originating in the eighteenth century, with inscriptions bearing dates such as 1316, 1510, 1788, and 1789, chronicle the successive stages of the mosque’s construction.
The congregation of pillars, standing gracefully in the subdued illumination of the hall, adorned with the finest Khorezm carving patterns, pays homage to the unparalleled artistry of local masters.
Symbolism and Religious Significance: Djuma Mosque holds immense religious significance as a place of communal worship for Friday congregational prayers. The absence of a central dome is intentional, allowing sunlight to filter through the columns, creating an ethereal ambiance during daytime prayers. The mihrab, indicating the direction of Mecca, is elegantly designed, adding to the mosque’s sacred aura.
Preservation Efforts: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Djuma Mosque has been subject to meticulous restoration efforts to preserve its architectural integrity. These efforts ensure that future generations can continue to marvel at this historical and religious gem.
Visitor Experience: For tourists and history enthusiasts, Djuma Mosque offers a captivating journey through the annals of Uzbekistan’s past. Exploring the intricate carvings, wandering through the columns, and witnessing the vibrant atmosphere during Friday prayers provide an immersive experience of the rich cultural and religious tapestry woven into the fabric of Khiva.
Djuma Mosque, with its timeless allure, invites travelers to delve into the spiritual and architectural legacy of Khiva, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a profound connection with Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage.