Mavlon-Buva, a renowned poet from centuries past, is honored in Uzbekistan with a beautiful complex in the city of Namangan. This architectural monument has long been a focal point not only for locals who enjoy spending time in the small park but also for tourists eager to learn about the city’s history and capture stunning photographs against the backdrop of this famous Uzbek landmark.
The Mavlon-Buva complex was constructed in the year 1221 of the Islamic calendar, which corresponds to 1806 in the Gregorian calendar. This date is inscribed directly above the entrance to this miniature mausoleum. Initially, only a burial place was erected over the poet’s grave, but later, a small mosque was built where memorial prayers are recited.
The mosque is actually tiny, measuring just seven by seven meters, yet it is incredibly beautiful. Looking at it, one gets the sense that this is what ideal architecture should look like. Clean lines, refined proportions, a small dome, and a window with elegant carved grilles. The portal, a traditional adornment of mosque entrances, slightly protrudes forward. It is decorated with two miniature towers with decorative spires. Upon closer inspection, one can see that the spires have a very unusual conical shape with steps.
Inside, the mosque is no less perfect than the outside. Light passes through the lattice window and arcade under the dome, illuminating the painted walls and carving in the “ganch” (a type of plaster), which is still very popular in Central Asia. The geometric patterns that form the main wall design intertwine delicately with Arabic script, which features verses from the famous poet’s works.
Surrounding the mosque is a small park. Visitors include admirers of Mavlon-Buva’s poetry as well as city residents who simply wish to spend time near this beautiful landmark.