Chashma complex

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Chashma complex

The Chashma complex
The Chashma complex

Renowned throughout Asia, Chashma complex site centers around a holy spring, or «chashma,» whose origins are steeped in legend and mystery. According to local legend, the Chashma spring was born from a meteorite that fell to earth, radiating light and creating a spring with healing properties where it struck. This miraculous event gave rise to the name «Nurata,» meaning «Ray of Father» or «Ray-Father,» with «Nur» translating to «Light.» The spring’s supposed celestial origins have made it a place of pilgrimage and veneration for centuries.

Located near the ruins of the Nur fortress, which was founded by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC, the Chashma complex is a site of great archaeological interest. The fortress, perched on a hill and surrounded by a defensive vallum, played a strategic role as it marked the boundary between the agricultural settlements of Marakand (now Samarkand) and the territories of nomadic tribes to the north. Alexander’s engineers constructed an advanced water supply system to ensure the fortress’s defenders always had access to water, underscoring the site’s strategic importance.

Despite frequent conflicts, life in Nurata flourished, gradually transforming the area around the spring into a bustling settlement. Over time, this small city evolved into one of the most visited Muslim sanctuaries in Central Asia.

The Chashma complex today includes several key structures:

  1. The Holy Spring (Chashma): Central to the complex, the spring’s water is believed to have healing properties due to its mineral content. Many people bring containers to collect water from the spring, which is believed to have healing properties and to be “blessed.”

  2. Juma Mosque: Constructed in the 16th century, the Juma Mosque is known for its large 16-meter dome. Locally known as “Chilsutun,” the mosque has 16 beautifully sculpted columns, with the western side featuring 10 columns due to a wider ceiling. Its interior features intricate wood engravings and elements of Central Asian décor, providing a serene environment for worship.

  3. Panjvakta Mosque: Also dating back to the 16th century, the Panjvakta Mosque is the oldest monument within the complex.

  4. Bathhouse: Built in the early 20th century by master craftsmen from Bukhara, the bathhouse is designed in an oriental style, complete with changing rooms and bathing areas. 

  5. Mazar (Mausoleum): According to the historian Narshahi, it is the burial site of companions of the Prophet Muhammad who personally knew him. 

The main attraction of the complex is located to the left front of the Juma Mosque, where the main source of the chasma is located. The five fingers well, located to the right of the chasma, is also a religious area, said to have a handprint at the bottom of its 6-meter depth. Visitors can walk along the path to the left to view the fish in the spring and take photos from the southern raised area.

Continuing up the steps to the upper area, visitors will find two decorated tombs (mazars). The first tomb has a blue dome and is enclosed, while the second tomb has a dome with open arches, allowing visitors to view the tomb.

Khiva's Old Town

Khiva city tour

From$60
5 hours

Climb Minaret of Islam-Khoja
Explore Ichan-Kala Fortress
Admire Kalta-Minor Minaret
Enjoy traditional Uzbek architecture
Visit local craft workshops

Explore the medieval charm of Khiva on this one-day tour. Discover the historic Ichan-Kala Fortress, admire the intricate Kalta-Minor and Juma Mosque, and wander through centuries-old streets, experiencing the city's rich history and vibrant atmosphere.