Standing as a testament to the architectural prowess of medieval Central Asia, the Jarkurgan Minaret near Termez is a fascinating relic of the region’s rich history. Situated in the medieval village of Charmangan and erected in 1109 by the esteemed architect Ali ibn Muhammad Serakhsi, this minaret has captivated visitors for centuries with its unique design and intricate craftsmanship.
The minaret, though now only retaining its lower tier, was once a two-tiered marvel of Islamic architecture. Its original form boasted a shaft adorned with 16 closed half columns, skillfully fluted to resemble the branches of a spreading fir tree. This distinctive fluted design, tapering towards the top, lent the minaret a sense of elegance and grandeur, evoking the splendor of the natural world.
At its peak, the minaret soared to a height of approximately 21.6 meters, with a bottom diameter of 5.4 meters and a top diameter of 4.1 meters. The upper portion of the shaft, now lost to time, likely featured intricate inscriptions from the Qur’an and elaborate decorative patterns, adding to the minaret’s visual appeal and spiritual significance.