The Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan represents ‘Third Renaissance’ vision

On March 17, 2026 the ambitious Centre of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan was opened in Tashkent, a flagship cultural and intellectual project that is drawing global attention for its scale, symbolism and geopolitical messaging.

Positioned as the cornerstone of the country’s ‘Third Renaissance’, the 10-hectare complex in central Tashkent aims to revive Central Asia’s historic role as a hub of science, scholarship and cultural exchange, while offering a contemporary response to extremism and Islamophobia through education and dialogue.

The project was first proposed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the United Nations General Assembly in 2017, where he called for showcasing the humanistic essence of Islam—rooted in enlightenment, peace and creativity. Since then, the initiative has evolved into one of the most prominent cultural projects of ‘New Uzbekistan’.

“Three thousand years of history are presented in a modern and compelling way. Here, one truly feels history, it is impossible to remain indifferent.” said Alexander Stubb, President of Finland.

Architecturally, the Centre blends Timurid-era influences with modern design. Its 65-metre azure dome and four golden gates symbolise national unity, while sustainable planning and landscaped public spaces position it as both a cultural and urban landmark.

At its core is the idea of harmonising faith and knowledge. A prominent inscription of the Quranic verse 'Iqra' ('Read') reflects the emphasis on learning as a spiritual duty. Among its most prized exhibits is the 7th-century Uthman Qur’an, recognised by UNESCO under its ‘Memory of the World’ register.
Unlike conventional museums, the Centre adopts an immersive exhibition format based on the theme ‘Civilization – Personalities – Discoveries’. Visitors are taken through a chronological journey, from the pre-Islamic period to the Islamic Golden Age and modern Uzbekistan, framing what officials describe as a new phase of intellectual revival.

Santiago Peña, President of Paraguay, said, “Many of humanity’s scientific and cultural achievements originated here. Unfortunately, the world does not always recognise that fundamental works in algebra and medicine emerged on this land.”

A key installation, the ‘Wall of Civilizations’, traces the continuum of human knowledge, linking figures such as Al-Khwarizmi, Ibn Sina and Al-Biruni to modern technological advancements. Advanced tools including virtual and augmented reality, holograms and artificial intelligence (AI) are used to recreate ancient observatories and bring manuscripts to life. A dedicated ‘1001 Inventions’ lab is designed to encourage scientific curiosity among children.

Officials say the Centre is also part of a broader effort to reclaim Uzbekistan’s dispersed cultural heritage. Through collaborations with global institutions and auction houses, nearly 2,000 manuscripts and artefacts, including works linked to Ibn Sina and Al-Biruni, have been repatriated in recent years. Facsimile copies of rare texts preserved in international libraries have also been created.

The Centre will house a research library of over 200,000 volumes, restoration laboratories, digital archives and a calligraphy school. It is expected to function as a global academic hub, with organisations such as ICESCO, IRCICA and the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies involved in its work.

More than 1,500 experts from over 40 countries have contributed to the project. Over the past year, following a presidential review in January 2025, the exhibitions have been further expanded to integrate scientific and innovative inputs from thousands of researchers.

Global leaders and institutions have taken note. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, during a visit, praised Uzbekistan’s emphasis on dialogue and enlightenment. Leaders from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and other countries have described the Centre as a shared platform for research and cultural exchange in the region.

The project has also received international recognition ahead of its opening. In February 2026, it was included in the Prix Versailles list of the ‘World’s most beautiful museums’. It has also featured in publications such as National Geographic, BBC and Smithsonian Magazine, placing it alongside major upcoming museum projects globally.

At a regional congress attended by five presidents and over 300 scholars, the Centre was showcased as a symbol of shared heritage across Central Asia and beyond.
The inauguration, which took place during the holy month of Ramadan, carries symbolic resonance. The foundation stone was laid during Ramadan in 2018, marking an eight-year journey from concept to completion.

The opening, which took place during the holy month of Ramadan, has symbolic significance.
As Uzbekistan positions itself at the intersection of heritage and modernity, the Centre of Islamic Civilization is expected to emerge as both a major tourist attraction and a platform for global dialogue, seeking to reconnect the region’s past intellectual legacy with future aspirations.

Disclaimer: The article has been produced on behalf of Islamic Civilization Centre by the Times Internet's Spotlight team.