Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- Information appeared on social networks that one of the domes could be demolished as a result of reconstruction carried out in the Chorsu market. On the territory of the market, an off-site meeting of the Scientific and Expert Council of the Cultural Heritage Agency under the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage was held with the participation of media representatives based on published materials. In the process, studies were conducted with the participation of experts, archaeologists and the media. In addition, relevant experts provided relevant information to the public.

About the history of the market

Chorsu - dekhkan market is located in the city of Tashkent, Almazar district, on Navoi street - in the old city part of Tashkent. The market has existed since the 11th-12th centuries and is considered one of the most important parts of the Great Silk Road. There are several cultural layers on its territory, it is planned to carry out archaeological work to study the historical significance of these layers.

Is the market area included in the list of cultural heritage sites?

“Chorsu dekhkan market is undoubtedly an object of cultural heritage, but in this place, it is necessary to take into account which areas of it are of historical importance. In particular, the central part of the market, its historical gates, are depicted in the works of a number of artists. In addition, some buildings not only in the market but also around it are also considered as objects of cultural heritage.” - Zafar Khakimov, editor-in-chief of the Moziydan sado magazine, member of the Scientific Expert Council.

Is the Seven Domes a cultural heritage site?

“Seven domes in the Chorsu dekhkan market are considered to be a cultural heritage site. It is for this reason that the first market reconstruction project was rejected by the Cultural Heritage Agency. The agency insists on the strict principle that the historical significance of these domes must be preserved," - Muhammad Fazili - chief architect of the Tashkent regional institution of the International Charitable Public Foundation "Golden Heritage", architect, member of the Scientific Expert Council.

Why is reconstruction needed?

“Chorsu dekhkan market is a trading zone in which, by now, there is a need to create infrastructure and amenities based on modern requirements. Currently, the situation in the kiosks under the domes does not fully meet sanitary requirements. There are problems with lighting, cleanliness, air purity, technical and fire safety.

The seven domes of Chorsu at the dekhkan market have become one of the symbols of Tashkent. In this regard, foreign and local tourists want to see and bargain at this place. There was a need for reconstruction in order to increase the demand for the market and improve the quality of service on it. But all these works are carried out under the control and with the permission of the Cultural Heritage Agency.” - Tursunali Kuziev, First Deputy Director of the Cultural Heritage Agency under the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Chairman of the Scientific Expert Council.

What will change?

During the reconstruction, damage to the historical value of the seven domes is not allowed. Installation of additional equipment on the domes, its cladding, changing patterns, introducing modern decor - all work can be performed only with the permission of the Cultural Heritage Agency, - Tursunali Kuziev said.

Call of confidence

In order to ensure active public participation in the preservation of cultural heritage sites, the Cultural Heritage Agency maintains cooperation with the media and citizens who are not indifferent to the preservation of historical monuments.

For this, the Cultural Heritage Agency under the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage organized a separate hotline.

In case of damage to cultural heritage sites located not only in the Chorsu market, but throughout the country, you can call (71) 200 01 18. The Cultural Heritage Agency thanks everyone for their cooperation in preserving our historical monuments.