Ulugbek’s early exposure to the sciences set him apart from other Timurid princes. During one of Timur’s campaigns, the army visited the city of Maragha, where the ruins of an ancient observatory built by al-Tusi greatly influenced the young Ulugbek. This visit sparked his lifelong interest in astronomy.
After the death of his grandfather, Ulugbek became the ruler of Transoxiana by the decision of his father, Shahrukh. He initiated the construction of madrasahs in Samarkand, Bukhara, and Gijduvan, encouraging the pursuit of knowledge and education. Under his rule, Central Asia experienced a renaissance, often referred to as the second period of the Eastern Renaissance.
In 1428, Ulugbek realized his dream by completing the construction of the Ulugbek Observatory. This observatory became a center of astronomical research, attracting renowned astronomers such as Qadi-zada al-Rumi, al-Kashi, and Ali Qushji. In 1437, Ulugbek compiled a star catalog describing 1,018 stars, and in 1444, he completed his magnum opus, the Zij-i Sultani, an astronomical table and star catalog that was later translated into European languages and became a fundamental guidebook in astronomy. Ulugbek’s contributions to astronomy place him alongside luminaries such as Copernicus, Galileo, and Ptolemy.
Today, Ulugbek’s legacy is honored in various ways. Streets, districts, and a metro station in Tashkent bear his name. In Samarkand, the Memorial Museum of Ulugbek was established next to the ruins of his observatory. The museum’s design was overseen by People’s Artist of Uzbekistan A. Askarov, with contributions from artists and craftsmen from the public fund under the Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan.
The museum houses a collection of exhibits related to Ulugbek’s heritage. The museum staff have meticulously recreated the environment in which he lived and worked. Various miniatures by Uzbek artists depict scenes of Ulugbek engaged in public affairs with his colleagues and interacting with his students. The museum’s collection also includes articles and books from that period, providing a comprehensive understanding of Ulugbek’s contributions to science and culture.
The Memorial Museum of Mirzo Ulugbek in Samarkand offers visitors a glimpse into the life and work of Ulugbek, highlighting his significant contributions to astronomy and education. The museum serves as a reminder of the rich cultural and scientific heritage of the region, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Central Asia.
