Centuries-Old Buildings: The Mosque in Karakol Built Without Nails

Ирэн Орлонская Society
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In the Issyk-Kul region, in Karakol, there is an outstanding Dungan mosque.

It is located at the corner of J. Abdrakhmanov and Bektenov streets and is named after Ibrahim Azhy.

According to available data, the construction of the mosque was initiated and financed by Ibrahim Azhy, also known as Ma-Yu-Ton.

“To implement the project, he attracted a famous architect from Beijing, Zhou Si, as well as 20 Chinese woodcarvers who were skilled in traditional Chinese architectural techniques. Local craftsmen also participated in the construction of auxiliary buildings and other works. The construction began in 1904 and was completed in 1907.

The cleverly designed system of notches allowed for the absence of metal fasteners, including nails. The mosque is supported by 42 columns. The multi-tiered wooden cornice framing the building is adorned with images of plants such as grapes, pomegranates, pears, and peaches. From 1929 to 1947, during the Soviet era, the mosque was used as a warehouse.

The building was returned to the Muslim community in 1947 and has since continued to function as a mosque, serving as the central mosque of the city.

Moreover, the mosque has the status of a historical monument protected by law,” the message notes.



The names of the imams who served in the mosque until 1929 remain unknown. However, starting from 1947, the following individuals held this position:

1. Abshaid moldo

2. Shamsy kary

3. Faizullah kary

4. Anipa Akhun

5. Nimatulla moldo

6. Uzak moldo

7. Jumadyl moldo

8. Asadulla moldo

9. Abduvakhab moldo

10. Shakir kazy

11. Muhammad imam

12. Almaz kazy

13. Rustam imam

14. Talant kary

15. Meder imam.
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