Last updated: June 2026
The Hazrati Imam Complex was where I got to know the more religious and traditional side of Tashkent. After seeing so much historic architecture in Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand, it was interesting to reach the capital and visit one of the most important religious centres in the country. The complex brings together mosques, a madrassa and a mausoleum, and it's the spiritual heart of Tashkent.
The big highlight, though, is what it holds inside: one of the oldest Qurans in the world. Let me tell you what I thought.
Quick facts
- Visit time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
- Location: Tashkent (old city)
- Best time: morning or late afternoon
- Difficulty: easy
- Price: entry to the complex is usually free; the library with the Quran may have a small fee; check on the spot
What is the Hazrati Imam Complex
The Hazrati Imam Complex is the most important religious centre in Tashkent, bringing together several historic and religious buildings in one space.
The site is a spiritual and cultural landmark, visited by both tourists and local worshippers.
What to see at the Hazrati Imam Complex
The complex is made up of several important buildings:
- Uthman Quran, one of the oldest Qurans in the world, is the great highlight of the complex; I saw the space where it's kept and it's impressive to think about the age of the manuscript
- Barak Khan Madrasah, a historic madrassa with traditional architecture and decorative details typical of the region
- Tilla Sheikh Mosque, one of the main mosques in the complex, still in use by the local community
- Mausoleum and other structures, buildings that complete the religious and historic ensemble
A religious place, visit with respect
The Hazrati Imam has a religious and sacred atmosphere, it's not a place to visit in a rush or just thinking about photos. It's worth going with appropriate clothing, covering shoulders and knees, and keeping a respectful demeanour during the visit, as in other religious sites in Uzbekistan. Part of the complex is still in use by worshippers.
Historical and religious importance
The complex houses the Uthman Quran, considered one of the oldest and most important manuscripts of Islam.
This makes the Hazrati Imam one of the most significant sites not only in Tashkent, but in the entire Islamic world.
How long to spend
Set aside 45 minutes to 1 hour. You can walk through the buildings of the complex at a relaxed pace and observe the architecture and religious details, as well as see the space of the Uthman Quran.
What to expect from the visit
The Hazrati Imam Complex impresses through its religious atmosphere and historical importance. For me, it was a way to get to know a more traditional and spiritual side of Tashkent, contrasting with the modern part of the capital.
Best time to visit
- Morning, a calmer environment and good light to explore the complex
- Late afternoon, softer lighting and pleasant weather
Practical tips
- Wear appropriate clothing, it's a religious site: shoulders and knees covered
- Keep a respectful demeanour, part of the complex is used by worshippers
- Set aside time to see the Uthman Quran, the great highlight of the place