BIBI-KHANYM MAUSOLEUM
When was the Bibi-Khanym complex built?
Between 1399 and 1404.
In which century was the observatory built?
The 15th century.
Which famous feature stands in the courtyard of the complex?
The giant stone Qur’an stand (rehl).
Which ruler and scholar built the observatory?
Ulugh Beg.
What was the name of the region where both the Bibi-Khanym Mosque and the Ulugh Beg Observatory were located during that historical period?
Movarounnahr
Which ruler ordered the construction of the Bibi-Khanym mosque in Samarkand?
Amir Timur.
Where is the observatory located?
Samarkand.
Which craftsmen contributed significantly to its artistic style?
Artisans from regions like India and Iran.
How many stars were recorded in Ulugh Beg’s catalogue?
1080 Stars
Which empire’s architectural and scientific achievements do these sites represent?
The Timurid Empire.
What type of decoration is the complex famous for?
Glazed tilework (koshin).
What was the primary instrument used there?
A giant stone sextant
What material was extensively used in the domes?
Brick covered with blue tiles.
Which scientific method increased the accuracy of observations?
Long-term repeated measurements.
What major challenge affected both sites over the centuries?
Damage from earthquakes.
What structural problem affected the building soon after its completion?
he heavy dome caused cracks and partial collapse
How deep was the underground part of the sextant?
Around 11 meters underground.
Which natural disaster damaged the complex over the centuries?
Earthquakes.
Why has part of the sextant survived to this day?
The lower section was protected underground.
Both sites attracted specialists from different regions. What does this show?
That Samarkand was an international cultural center.
Why was the complex built on such a monumental scale?
To demonstrate Timurid imperial power and prestige.
What major scientific work was produced there
"Zij-i Jadid-i Koragoni.”
What makes Bibi-Khanym a key symbol of early Timurid architecture?
Its massive scale and innovative engineering.
Why is the observatory considered a center of the Timurid Renaissance?
It advanced astronomy with unprecedented precision.
Why are these two monuments often studied together?
They represent the artistic and scientific peak of the Timurid era.