Jami Mosque
Jami Mosque, nestled in the heart of Shymkent's Old Town, is the city's oldest mosque. While it may initially appear modest and unadorned compared to other mosques, it carries a unique significance. The mosque is a single-story brick building, with low minarets and a modest courtyard. Its exterior exhibits gold-colored domes bereft of Arabic motifs and ornate facades. Amidst the tall buildings, it might easily escape notice. Nevertheless, this unassuming exterior does nothing to diminish the mosque's importance.
Jami Mosque has preserved its original appearance over time with its brick façade, delicate arches, and rustic beams. A creaking wooden staircase leads visitors to an ancient hall still decorated with traditional ornaments.
A subject of debate
The exact date of the mosque's construction remains unknown. Some sources suggest it was erected in 1823 by the initiative of the Dostmukhamedov brothers, who financed the project and even enlisted architects from Kokand, Uzbekistan. However, S. Abdulgaffarov, who was the chief judge of Shymkent in late 19th century, claimed that Jami had been commissioned by Mirza-Ahmed Kushbegi. He was the governor of the Tashkent region, a renowned advocate for religious education, and a patron of mosque and madrasah construction. In this case, the mosque likely dates back to the period of 1853-1859.
Unique style and cats
Jami Mosque captivates its visitors with its distinctive Ferghana style, featuring an open terrace called an iwan, suitable for the hot and dry climate of Central Asia. Jami Mosque stands as the lone representative of the Ferghana style in Kazakhstan.
Visitors to the mosque may encounter cats, which roam freely within its precincts. According to Islamic traditions, cats are considered clean animals and are therefore welcomed within religious structures. Maintaining cleanliness while visiting the mosque is of great importance, as is dressing appropriately.
How to get there?
Address: Shymkent, 68/2 Amangeldy St.
To reach the mosque, you can take buses #18, 32, 60, 96, or 122. Disembark at the "Venice Store" bus stop, it's just a 600-meter (656 yd) walk from there to reach the mosque.
Other tourist attractions near Jami Mosque:
- ShymQala Ethnic Village
- Altyn Shanyrak Monument
- Shymkent Plaza Shopping Mall
- Ordabasy Square
- Fantasy World Park
- Russian Drama Theater
- Independence Park
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Shymkent, the third-largest city in Kazakhstan, boasts a rich, extensive history. It is one of the oldest cities in the region, having emerged as a vital hub along the Silk Road caravan routes.