In the background of this image rises the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the most important monuments in Samarkand.
In the 15th century, it was among the largest and most magnificent mosques in the Islamic world.
By the mid-20th century, however, it had become a grand ruin — though thankfully, major sections have since been restored.
The mosque’s origins date back to Tamerlane (Timur), who ordered its construction using the wealth seized during his conquest of India.
By 1404, the mosque was nearly complete.
A century later, however, restoration efforts were abandoned by Khan Abdollah, and the structure soon collapsed — eroded by wind, time, and earthquakes.
Over the centuries, residents of Samarkand plundered its remains for building materials.
In the foreground, a young boy is seen reading.
It is an image of rare poetry, capturing both the deep culture of the Uzbek people and the grandeur of their centuries-old history.