The Architecture of Zarafshon Monuments

Savriev Jasur Fakhriddinovich

Navoi Innovations University, Navoi, Uzbekistan

Keywords: Central Asia, Registan, Bukhara, Karmana, Deggarani, Historical Process, Natural Climate, Islamic Religion,

Heritage, Middle Age, Architectural Structure, Remains, Ruins, Archival Data, Monument, Mosque,

Mausoleum, Minaret, Dome, Pediment, Column, Khonimariq, Varq, Dormon, Precipitation, Atmosphere,

Domestic Water, Zakh, Plate, Repairman, Urban Planning, Structure, Mosque, Arch, Wide, Bright, Wide

Object.

Abstract: This article explores the architectural landscape and construction practices of cities within the Middle

Zarafshan oasis, particularly focusing on monuments and cultural heritage sites. Through extensive research

conducted in Uzbekistan's central region, numerous cultural artefacts were identified, leading to systematic

restoration efforts, particularly during milestone events. The study encompassed various stages, shedding light

on ancient urban planning processes and architectural styles. To elevate cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and

Karmana to global standards, meticulous master plans were devised, urban development was meticulously

regulated, and measures were implemented to safeguard architectural treasures. This comprehensive approach

aims to preserve the rich historical legacy while promoting sustainable development in these ancient cities,

thus contributing to their cultural significance on a global scale.

1 INTRODUCTION

The Middle Zarafshan oasis, renowned for its

architectural marvels, stands as a testament to the rich

cultural heritage of the republic. Over time, the

region's urban planning ethos and grand architectural

traditions have evolved through various stages. With

independence, the preservation of these monuments

has emerged as a paramount duty, symbolizing our

nation's history, scientific advancements, and cultural

legacy for future generations. However, the relentless

passage of time, coupled with natural and human-

induced factors like climate fluctuations, seismic

activities, and urbanization, has led to the erosion and

deterioration of these treasures. The expansion of

cities, infrastructural developments, and societal

changes in the 19th and 20th centuries exacerbated

these challenges, resulting in the loss and degradation

of numerous historical landmarks. Consequently,

safeguarding these monuments has become an urgent

imperative, necessitating comprehensive

conservation efforts. This responsibility falls upon the

state, which, despite facing transitional hurdles, has

demonstrated a steadfast commitment to preserving

and restoring cultural heritage sites, marking a

significant milestone in the nation's architectural

journey. The research aims to uncover the principal

directions of studying and restoring historical

monuments within the Middle Zarafshan oasis, both

before and during the years of independence, from a

historical perspective.

2 METHODOLOGY

Before independence, a series of distinctive

restoration and conservation efforts were undertaken

to repair monuments, establishing the theoretical

basis of scientific methodology. These theories,

largely articulated in scholarly publications at the

time, drew from years of observation and practical

expertise. By the late 1920s, the core principles of the

architectural-archaeological approach to studying

cultural monuments were outlined, culminating in the

1928 publication "Problems of Restoration." Post-

independence, renovation phases primarily coincided

with jubilees and events, incorporating the city

planning state alongside antiquity in practical

applications. Restoration and conservation

undertakings adhered to a program outlined by design

expertise, ensuring meticulous registration, accuracy,

and inspections. The Middle Zarafshan oasis boasts a

rich architectural heritage, symbolizing the region's

290

Fakhriddinovich, S.

The Architecture of Zarafshon Monuments.

DOI: 10.5220/0012839700003882

Paper published under CC license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)

In Proceedings of the 2nd Pamir Transboundary Conference for Sustainable Societies (PAMIR-2 2023), pages 290-292

ISBN: 978-989-758-723-8

historical and cultural significance. However, the

preservation of these ancient structures has been

challenged by various historical, climatic, and human

factors. With over 600 architectural monuments

under state protection in Uzbekistan, mosques

dominate the landscape, serving as key markers of

religious and civic life. From the grandeur of the

Shahizinda architectural complex to the intricate

minarets of Samarkand, these monuments stand as

testament to the ingenuity of past craftsmen. Yet, the

relentless march of time and environmental pressures

necessitate ongoing conservation efforts. Fortunately,

recent decades have seen substantial investment in

restoration projects, revitalizing iconic landmarks and

reaffirming Uzbekistan's commitment to preserving

its architectural heritage. By drawing on historical

sources and modern expertise, the task of

safeguarding these treasures for future generations

remains an ongoing endeavour, ensuring that their

legacy endures for centuries to come.

3 RESULTS

Historical monuments in the Middle Zarafshan oasis,

including those in Bukhara, Samarkand, and

Karmana, are facing the need for repair and

restoration. Through a comprehensive study

incorporating historical evidence and oral surveys,

the involvement of local residents and patrons in the

preservation efforts of mosques and mausoleums is

examined. Their contributions to each historical site

shed light on the symbiotic relationship between the

community and cultural heritage. Moreover, this

research underscores the pivotal role of cultural

heritage in urban development, highlighting how

these monuments serve as anchors of identity and

pride for local communities. By documenting and

analysing the collaborative efforts of various

stakeholders, this study aims to inform future

conservation strategies and foster a deeper

appreciation for the cultural significance of these

architectural treasures.

4 DISCUSSION

According to archival data, comprehensive theories

explaining the decay of monuments remain

underdeveloped. However, experts classify

monuments into three groups based on common

reasons for their deterioration and methods of

restoration.

Group I encompass monuments experiencing

physical wear and tear due to time and climate,

gradually losing their original architectural features.

The extent of deterioration depends on various

factors, including the materials used, geographical

location, and usage conditions.

Group II consists of monuments with structural

defects caused by soil compaction or erosion, leading

to loss of stability. Human activities and lack of

maintenance exacerbate these issues, resulting in

overall deterioration.

Group III includes monuments affected by rising

groundwater, causing flooding and accelerated

deterioration. Research indicates that many

monuments were built on unsuitable soil types,

further contributing to their degradation.

Despite these challenges, repair efforts have been

initiated, focusing on structural reinforcement and

restoration. However, financial constraints and

transitional difficulties have complicated these

processes, leading to delays and inadequate

maintenance.

Addressing these issues requires a collaborative

approach involving skilled restoration specialists and

adherence to historical and artistic preservation

principles. Modern repair methods must be carefully

applied to maintain the integrity and authenticity of

the monuments, while natural building materials

should be prioritised to prevent further damage.

Ultimately, the repair and restoration of historical

monuments in the Middle Zarafshan oasis demand

meticulous planning, technical expertise, and a

commitment to preserving cultural heritage for future

generations.

5 CONCLUSION

The extensive efforts undertaken to conserve, study,

and restore historical monuments in the Middle

Zarafshan oasis have yielded significant results,

accompanied by valuable scientific insights. Despite

notable achievements during the initial years of

independence, challenges emerged during the

transitional period, particularly concerning financial

constraints within the Ministry of Culture of

Uzbekistan's main scientific production department.

These deficits hindered the systematic organization of

restoration and repair works, highlighting the need for

improved resource allocation and institutional

support.

Furthermore, restoration efforts unveiled

deficiencies in repair quality and material selection,

underscoring the importance of meticulous planning

and adherence to international standards.

Recommendations include the establishment of

restoration schools, advanced preparation of high-

quality repair materials, and the implementation of

The Architecture of Zarafshon Monuments

291

technical strengthening measures to enhance

monument preservation. By addressing these issues

comprehensively, Uzbekistan can further enhance the

conservation, restoration, and reconstruction of its

cultural heritage, ensuring the transmission of

original architectural marvels to future generations in

Bukhara, Samarkand, Navoi region, and beyond.

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