Boloi Havz Mosque

Have you ever seen a mosque reflected in a pool as if in a mirror? Here at the Bolo Haouz Mosque, that’s precisely the view that greets you. The Bolo Haouz Mosque isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a work of art, gracefully mirrored in the tranquil waters of the hauz, or pool, that gives it its name. “Bolo Haouz” translates to “children’s pond,” a name that speaks to the life and community this place has fostered for centuries. Built in 1712 across from the Ark Citadel in Bukhara’s Registan district, the Bolo Haouz Mosque is a relatively young addition to this ancient city. Yet, its beauty and historical significance have earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. The mosque is renowned for its stunning summer prayer room, a 20-pillared iwan, or open-sided hall, that stretches an impressive 42 meters in length. The iwan’s intricately carved, brightly painted wooden columns, each formed from two tree trunks, support a richly decorated ceiling. They create a breathtaking spectacle. These 20 columns, reflected in the pool, create the illusion of 40 pillars, earning the mosque the local nickname, “the mosque of forty pillars.” This unique feature adds to the Bolo Haouz Mosque’s charm. In 1917, the mosque underwent some additions. Thin, painted wooden columns were added to the iwan’s front. These columns, adorned with colorful muqarnas, provide additional support to the bulged roof, while also enhancing the mosque’s aesthetic appeal. A small minaret was also constructed the same year, completing the ensemble as we see it today. The Bolo Haouz Mosque isn’t just a historical relic. It remains a vibrant part of Bukhara’s spiritual life. It continues to serve as a Friday mosque, welcoming worshippers and visitors alike. Imagine the scene: the faithful gathering for prayer, the sunlight filtering through the iwan’s columns, the gentle murmur of the hauz waters, the reflections dancing. The Bolo Haouz Mosque is more than a beautiful building; it’s a living testament to Bukhara’s rich history and enduring faith. Its reflection in the pool isn’t just a visual delight, it’s a symbol of the mosque’s deep connection to the community it serves.