Uzbekistan unveils Center for Islamic Civilization
10-hectare Tashkent complex merges research, heritage, and philanthropy; Usmanov’s rare book donation anchors “enlightened Islam” initiative
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) — Uzbekistan has opened its Center for Islamic Civilization, a 10-hectare complex in central Tashkent blending scholarship, heritage preservation, and state-supported philanthropy, officials said.
Built under a 2017 presidential decree, the complex houses a museum, research and educational facilities, library, and archive.
Its architecture—four 34-meter portals surrounding a 65-meter dome—reflects Islamic tradition while embracing modern knowledge.
Exhibits trace the region’s history from pre-Islamic civilizations to what officials call the “Third Renaissance.”
The Hall of the Holy Quran displays the Uthman Quran and 114 ancient texts representing each sura. Rare manuscripts from around the world and a gallery highlighting women’s roles in Islamic civilization are also featured.
The center engages over 2,000 local and international researchers, 110 organizations, and more than 600 experts from 50 countries.
Uzbek entrepreneur Alisher Usmanov donated nearly 5,000 rare titles, including the first Latin translation of Avicenna’s Canon of Medicine, supporting “cultural sovereignty.”
The Center for Islamic Civilization aims to become a permanent hub for research and innovation, blending education, exhibition, and discovery.
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