Uzbekistan, a nation where the echoes of ancient caravans still seem to resonate through its bustling bazaars and silent deserts, is a land steeped in religious diversity. At its core, Islam is the predominant faith, with Sunni Muslims comprising 93% of the population, while a small yet significant 1% of Shia Muslims enrich the cultural tapestry in the historic cities of Bukhara and Samarkand.
Despite its Islamic majority, Uzbekistan stands as a secular state, a testament to its commitment to harmony and tolerance among its citizens. The nation’s constitution enshrines the freedom of religion, allowing every individual the liberty to follow their faith or choose not to adhere to any religious doctrine. This principle is reflected in the presence of 2,225 registered religious organizations representing 16 different confessions, painting a vibrant picture of Uzbekistan’s pluralistic society.
Christianity holds the second-largest religious following in the country, with Orthodox Christians accounting for 4% and Catholics for 3% of the population. The Russian Orthodox Church, which has been a part of Uzbekistan’s religious landscape since the 19th century, celebrated its 140th anniversary in Central Asia in 2011. The roots of Orthodox Christianity in the region can be traced back to 1871, following the Russian Empire’s annexation and Emperor Alexander II’s decree to establish the Tashkent and Turkistan Eparchy. The first church, erected near a Tashkent hospital, has evolved into the resplendent Cathedral of Holy Dormition, the principal church of the Tashkent eparchy. This sacred edifice, along with other churches like the Alexander Nevskiy Church and the Patriarch Ermogen Church in Tashkent, as well as the Cathedral of St. Aleksey in Samarkand and the Church of the Kazan icon of the Mother of God in Kokand, stands as a beacon of faith for the Orthodox community.
The first convent in Central Asia, dedicated to St. Nikolay, and the Tashkent theological seminary are also significant landmarks of Orthodox Christianity in Uzbekistan. As of the first half of 2014, the country was home to 38 Orthodox churches and a community of over 600,000 adherents.
The Catholic community, though smaller in number, has a notable presence with the Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ Church, a century-old edifice that is among the capital’s prominent attractions.
Other Christian denominations, along with the Armenian Apostolic Church and Jewish synagogues, contribute to the religious mosaic of Uzbekistan. The Bukhara Jews, in particular, have a storied presence in the region. Originating from the Jewish community that has resided in Central Asia since the 13th century, they have historically inhabited distinct quarters, engaging in crafts such as weaving and dyeing, as well as trade. Over the centuries, the Bukhara Jews have maintained their language, faith, and customs, even as they established diasporas in cities like Samarkand, Kokand, and Andijan.
In essence, Uzbekistan’s religious landscape is a reflection of its history—a history that has embraced a multitude of faiths and traditions, fostering a society where different religions coexist in peaceful accord. The country’s commitment to preserving this diversity is evident in its legal protections and the vibrant community life that flourishes within its borders.
Tours in Uzbekistan
