Jami Complex in Andijan
The majestic Jami complex in Andijan impresses with its size. Its construction lasted seven years — from 1883 to 1890. The scale of the architectural ensemble is impressive — the length is about 123 m; the area is 1.5 hectares. The size is explained by the following fact. In the middle of the 19th century, all settlements sought to surpass others in the grandeur of their mosque. Thus, the Friday Jami Mosque appeared - the largest in the Fergana Valley and a grandiose madrasah. Then the minaret was also erected, forming the complex.
The main facade of the Jami Madrasah was built according to all the canons (strictly directed to the east). Initially, the building had a U-shape. But over time, destruction occurred on the north and south sides, and the earthquake of 1902 completed the process. The building portal is decorated with traditional regional style. On both sides of the building, there were high guldasta turrets with lanterns. The madrasah was built according to all the rules that applied at that time. The rooms for teaching students are located in the corners, and between them are living rooms (hujras). There was a courtyard below, destroyed by time.
One of the valuable decorative elements that have survived to the present day is the darvazakhana gates. They are made of wood, decorated with unique carvings. Wooden geometric panjara lattices, representing cultural value, have also been preserved. After all, everything here is handmade by Fergana craftsmen. On the walls, you can see the blue colors of mosaic.
The minaret Jami rises to 32 m and is considered the tallest building in the Fergana Valley. The brick building with an octagonal base has an unusual decor. The entire surface decorates with a fascinating ornament. It resembles a medallion, and inside there are inscriptions from the Koran in Arabic. At the very top of the minaret, there is an exciting lantern. A ring of blue mosaics adorns the top and middle of the Jami minaret. There is a spiral staircase along with the entire height.
The Friday Jami Mosque locates in the western part of the architectural ensemble. It also surprises with its scale and appearance. In its design, there are 26 arched openings on the building facade. On the portal have been stamped the sayings of the Koran. The mosque is a rectangular building (surrounded on three sides by wooden columns with ayvan). Elaborate carvings decorate them along their entire length. On the ceilings, you can see beautiful patterns of ornament, which contain floral and geometric themes. The mosque remains open to visitors to this day.
The entire architectural ensemble: Jami Madrasah, minaret, and mosque impress with its size and splendor, telling about the region's history. Every detail of the complex maintains its appearance for many years, despite the negative natural factors. An artificial pond locates in front of the minaret, various trees grow around it, creating a cozy, pleasant atmosphere. It gives the missing zest to the whole complex. All the buildings here are built in the same style, creating one whole and grandiose formation, the doors of which are always open to believers, tourists, and guests.