A Monument to Legacy: The Center for Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan

A Grand Structure

Located in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, the newly constructed Center for Islamic Civilization (CISC) stands as a striking monument, dwarfing iconic symbols like the Hollywood sign and the White House. At four times the height of the Hollywood sign and seven times larger than the White House, this impressive three-story, $150 million facility is set to open its doors to the public in March 2026. Designed to celebrate and rejuvenate Uzbekistan’s historical significance as a hub of Islamic scholarship, CISC promises to be a beacon of cultural pride.

Bridging the Past with the Future

Firdavs Abdukhalikov, the director of CISC, emphasizes the historical importance of the region, stating, “This region has been home to many ancestors who influenced world civilization.” The quest to present these influential figures and ideas to the world in a modern and engaging format lies at the heart of the center’s mission. This initiative represents not only a revival of history but also a bridge for younger generations to connect with their rich heritage.

Global Collaboration

Over the past eight years, the construction of CISC has seen collaboration from 1,500 specialists hailing from more than 40 countries. This diverse expertise has contributed substantially to its scientific, architectural, and cultural elements, ensuring a multifaceted approach to the center’s offerings.

Innovation in Education

One of the center’s standout features will be its “interactive educational zone,” leveraging cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence. The interactive exhibits, such as conversations with “living portraits” of historical scholars, aim to inspire curiosity among children about various fields including astronomy, medicine, and literature. By merging technology with education, CISC strives to make learning an immersive experience.

A Resource for Scholars

The second floor of the facility will serve as a research haven, featuring a library with over 200,000 books. This space will be accessible to international academics, fostering an environment of scholarly exchange and collaboration. Abdukhalikov remarked, “It’s not just a museum — it’s a cultural and educational platform. Here, we don’t only engage with artifacts, but also with the lives and ideas of influential figures.”

Cultural Identity

While Uzbekistan operates as a secular nation, Islam plays a crucial role in the country’s historical and cultural identity. The Arab conquests in the 7th century marked the beginning of Islam’s presence in the region, transforming the cultural landscape that had been dominated by earlier Zoroastrian and Buddhist traditions. The 9th to 12th centuries, in particular, witnessed a golden age of science, literature, and architecture that has left an indelible mark on Uzbekistan’s legacy.

The Silk Road’s Influence

Historically, cities like Bukhara and Samarkand were vital hubs along the Silk Road, bridging East and West and facilitating a rich exchange of culture and ideas over more than a millennium. Farhan Ahmad Nizami, a historian from the University of Oxford, notes, “Uzbekistan’s contribution to science and arts is evident, although it had not received sufficient attention.” The strategic significance of these cities highlights their historical role as a melting pot of civilizations.

Reviving Rich Traditions

Following centuries of foreign rule, particularly during the Russian Empire and Soviet Union eras, many aspects of Uzbekistan’s Islamic heritage were suppressed. Under Soviet rule, numerous cultural treasures were lost or scattered. Abdukhalikov reveals, “A significant portion of our cultural treasures left the country during the Soviet times.” It wasn’t until Uzbekistan regained independence in 1991 that a concerted effort began to revive and reclaim its Islamic heritage.

Recovering Heritage

The CISC is not merely a museum but also a center committed to recovering lost treasures. Abdukhalikov mentions participation in global auctions, such as those conducted by Christie’s and Sotheby’s, resulting in the reclamation of about 2,000 cultural items, including ancient manuscripts and artifacts that illuminate Uzbekistan’s past.

Exhibition Highlights

Exhibiting objects like the 7th-century Quran of Uthman—the oldest known Quran—and an extensive collection of Quranic manuscripts, the center seeks to narrate Uzbekistan’s rich history through its material culture. Nizami points out that while the center has “tremendous potential,” its success will largely depend on sustained efforts in research, education, and cultural engagement.

Ongoing Challenges

Despite the optimism surrounding CISC, criticisms have emerged regarding its construction costs, funding sources, and the limited religious freedoms in Uzbekistan. The center has remained tight-lipped about these specifics, highlighting an ongoing conversation about transparency and cultural representation.

Looking Ahead

A construction fire has delayed the center’s original opening date, but the main construction work is complete, and preparations are underway for its grand unveiling. With a young population—around 60% under age 35—Abdukhalikov states that this center aims to inspire the next generation. He insists, “We have to tell the story of our great history through innovation and creativity,” anchoring the center’s mission in the desire to connect youth with their expansive cultural heritage.