The Jami Mosque stands as a prominent landmark in Kokand’s Chorsu square, serving as a symbol of the city’s identity. While it feels like an integral part of Kokand’s history, the present mosque was actually constructed in the 19th century. The original mosque mentioned in historical chronicles from the 9th to 12th centuries was destroyed during the Mongol invasions.
The construction of the current mosque began in 1805 under Kokand’s Olimhan but was halted due to objections from the mosque’s leader, who opposed using forcibly collected funds. It was not until 1814, under the rule of Umarkhan, a benevolent ruler of the Kokand Khanate, that the construction resumed. Umarkhan enlisted a talented architect from Ura-Tube to oversee the project, which employed over 200 skilled builders. Within two years, the Jami Mosque was completed, becoming a monumental structure renowned for its beauty.
The mosque’s vast courtyard includes a khanaka and a large aivan with its roof supported by 98 columns, each intricately painted with colors and gold. The khanaka features a beautifully painted ceiling, and the mosque walls are adorned with delicate ganch carving that has endured the test of time.
The mosque also housed a madrassah, evidenced by the khujdras, or classrooms, lining the courtyard’s perimeter. The madrassah operated until 1918, and the mosque continued to be a place of worship until 1930.
Dominating the courtyard is a 22.5-meter minaret, where the muezzin historically called the faithful to prayer. The stone minaret, crowned with a faceted dome, offers panoramic views of Kokand. Legend has it that this minaret was once used for harsh forms of justice, such as throwing criminals and disloyal wives from its height.
Undoubtedly, the Jami Mosque’s architectural grandeur and historical significance align it with the renowned architectural monuments of Bukhara and Samarkand, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the cultural heritage of Uzbekistan.