School of Calligraphy was established at the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan
The Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan has announced the establishment of a School of Calligraphy. This important scientific and educational project was unveiled during a seminar titled “Calligraphic Heritage of the Timurid Era — Continuity of Traditions,” dedicated to the 690th anniversary of the birth of the great commander Amir Timur.
The seminar brought together leading experts in Islamic art, history, and philology, becoming an important platform for comprehensive discussion of the spiritual and cultural significance of calligraphy.
“As noted, the initiative to establish the School of Calligraphy at the Center of Islamic Civilization was proposed by the esteemed President of our country, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, on January 29, 2025. Within a year, this initiative gained broad support from international organizations, and during the conference dedicated to the Timurid civilization, the project was officially launched. The creation of the School of Calligraphy is a logical continuation of large-scale reforms aimed at preserving and promoting our country’s cultural heritage,” said Firdavs Abduhalikov in his address to participants.
It was emphasized that during the Timurid era, calligraphy reached its highest level of development and became a symbol of cultural flourishing. According to scholars, after establishing a centralized state, Amir Timur gathered the finest calligraphers from various regions in the capital. Writing styles such as Thuluth, Nasta'liq, and Kufic flourished. Outstanding works were created, including the famous Qur’an manuscript “Baysunghur.”
International experts highly appreciated the initiative. In particular, IRCICA Director General Mahmud Erol Kılıç highlighted the role of Islamic calligraphy in global culture and its high aesthetic and spiritual value. Chairman of the Turkish Manuscripts Institution Coşkun Yılmaz presented information about rare manuscripts preserved in the Süleymaniye Library, noting that many are concerned with Central Asian history. Director of the Al-Furqan Islamic Heritage Foundation, Salih Shaksuvari (UK), described the Timurid era as a true period of intellectual and cultural renaissance.
It is noted that the School of Calligraphy will function not only as an educational institution but also as a research and cultural center. Its activities will include training specialists, preserving and restoring manuscript heritage, and developing international cooperation.
