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ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECES
M.
S. Saipova
Doctor of Philosophy in Architecture, Tashkent International University of Financial
Management and Technologi.
Annotation
. Ancient world monuments are landmarks that reflect humanity's cultural and
architectural achievements. They were built in different eras and regions, with some still
standing today, while others have taken on a legendary status.
Key words:
Ancient monuments, architectural achievements, historical landmarks, cultural
heritage, ancient world, temple, mausoleum, amphitheater, wall, support column, statue.
The monuments of the ancient world are the most important and priceless monuments of human
history, reflecting not only architectural and engineering achievements, but also the cultural,
religious and social life of various peoples. They are unique structures that demonstrate the
power of human thought, the harmony of art and technology. These monuments were built by
various civilizations over thousands of years, some of which are well preserved to this day, while
others remain in the pages of history as legendary relics.
Among the architectural monuments of the ancient world are the Egyptian pyramids, the Ishtar
Gate of Babylon, the Parthenon of Greece, the Colosseum of Rome, the Great Wall of China, and
many other magnificent structures. These monuments were built using advanced technologies of
their time, some of which are difficult to replicate even today, and are considered the highest
examples of architecture and engineering.
For example, the Egyptian ehrams were built on the basis of very precise mathematical
calculations, and their heights and angles amaze even modern engineers. These structures were
built using extremely sophisticated technologies and methods of lifting heavy stones. There are
hypotheses that these pyramids, associated with the funerary rites of the pharaohs, were used not
only as tombs, but also for astronomical observations.
The Ishtar Gate in Babylon was a magnificent structure. Made of blue-glazed bricks, this
massive gate symbolized the power of the Babylonian kingdom and was decorated with lions,
dragons, and bulls. This gate is a vivid example of the developed artistic and architectural
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traditions
of
the
ancient
Mesopotamian
civilization
(Figure
1).
Figure 1. View of the Ishtar Gate. The Parthenon Temple in Greece is distinguished by its
architectural structure, which is harmoniously combined with art. This structure reflects the high
knowledge of the ancient Greeks in the fields of art, philosophy, and theology, and clearly
expresses their religious beliefs and their desire for aesthetic perfection.
The Ishtar Gate was the eighth gate of the inner city of Babylon (in modern-day Hillah, Babylon
Governorate, Iraq). It was built around 575 BC on the northern side of the city by order of King
Nebuchadnezzar II. It was part of a large walled route leading into the city. The walls were made
of glazed bricks, mostly blue, with reliefs depicting animals and gods of the period[1].
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Parthenon (- virgin) is the temple of the goddess Athena on the Acropolis (Athens), a huge
monument
of
Greek
architecture
(Fig.
2).
Figure 2. Parthenon.
It was built in 447-438 BC by Ictinus and Callicrates. The temple has large cellas (rooms for
religious statues) and small rooms (like the temple, called the "Parthenon"), where the treasures
were stored. These rooms (30.89x96.54 m in size) are surrounded by Doric colonnades. The
magnificent white marble structure is complemented by sculptural decorations created by Phidias
and Greek sculptors. The metopes of the building's frame depict scenes of battles between
centaurs, giants, and Amazons, and its pediments are decorated with sculptural compositions.
The Parthenon's architecture reflects the greatness of Greek art, its harmony, beauty, and vitality
in its heyday. It was destroyed by the Venetians during the war with the Turks in 1687. In 1801–
03, the Parthenon statues were taken to England and placed in the British Museum in 1816.[3]
The Colosseum, one of the most famous monuments of the Roman Empire, is a shining example
of architectural and engineering achievements. Its huge arena could accommodate thousands of
spectators and hosted various games, gladiatorial fights, and public spectacles. Modern stadium
designs are often inspired by the architecture of the Colosseum.
Today, preservation and study of monuments of the ancient world is one of the important areas
of protection of human cultural heritage. These monuments have been included in the World
Heritage List by the UN UNESCO organization, and various measures are being taken to
monitor their condition and pass it on to future generations.
Every country has historical monuments and monuments that remind of the past and glorious
history of its people.
Through these monuments, a person receives spiritual nourishment, is proud of the history of his
state and feels a sense of pride. There are many historical monuments in the world that were
created by human hands and have been preserved for thousands of years, without losing their
charm. But each has its own place, influence, and significance. We know from history that
mankind has always valued art and strived for beauty. Through these qualities, they have created
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incredible innovations with their skillful hands. These include scientific achievements, works in
the field of art, and, of course, architecture.
If a person lives only in the present and does not look to the past, he will forget his past and
traditions.
A people who do not know their history have no future. If we look at the history of ancient Egypt,
we can see that throughout their development they remained faithful to their age-old traditions
and values, adapting innovations from abroad to their traditions and adopting only the necessary
ones. They also remained faithful to their values in the fields of construction, science, and
medicine.
Many historical architectural monuments that echo the past have survived to us in our homeland.
With their grandeur, unique architectural style, and tastefully crafted designs, they attract not
only domestic tourists but also foreign art lovers. Visiting these monuments awakens a sense of
pride and honor in the hearts of the younger generation. Every historical monument created in
ancient times connects us with the past and helps us feel the breath of that era. It is not for
nothing that the place of historical monuments is emphasized among the forces influencing
human spirituality. Such buildings are the product of human labor, delicate taste and unique
ideas. The human factor is highly valued by the world community to this day.
As the great Amir Temur said: "If you doubt our power, look at the buildings we have built."
This phrase itself reminds us of our great statehood. A person who visits historical monuments
feels as if he has fallen into the past, into a magical land, and the way of life of that time is
recreated before his eyes. Every element used in the construction of historical monuments, from
the smallest grains of sand to the incomparably unique patterns and gilded decorations, seems to
speak to the visitor about that era.
The high level of attention paid to historical monuments since the early years of independence is
also
a
sign
of
their
importance
for
future
generations.
In order to provide young people with the opportunity to fully study and experience each part of
these monuments, the decision of our President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to increase the number of
practical hours for students during the academic year has opened the door to great opportunities
for young people studying social and humanitarian sciences. By visiting such monuments,
everyone receives spiritual nourishment and at the same time is refreshed spiritually.
If we take the example of Samarkand alone, it is not without reason that it is called "the land of
the Saikali Ru'i Zamin".
This area is home to the Sherdor, Tillakori, Ulugbek, Bibikhanim madrasahs and many other
historical buildings. One of them, the Tillakori madrasah, was built between 1646 and 1660, and
the construction work was sponsored by the governor of Samarkand, Bahodir Yalangtash. The
madrasah was built on the foundation of a caravanserai and was called the "Small Yalangtashbi
Madrasah". The building is distinguished by its great splendor and unique patterns.
Old Khiva, which is considered a fairy-tale city in our country, also has monuments that echo its
past glory.
One of them is the Kalta Minor. The tower was built in 1853 and was not completed. The base is
located at a depth of 15 meters. If fully built, its height would have reached 100 meters. The
decoration of the tower is unique and perfect, and the composition of the colors used in it still
remains
a
mystery.
The valley is no exception. The Khudoyorkhan Horde, considered a symbol of the city of
Kokand, was built in the second half of the 19th century under the leadership of the famous
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Kokand architect Mir Ubaidulla. Its walls, verandas, and luxurious decorations will amaze any
visitor.
If young people are taken to these places, they will once again realize what a great country they
are and what wise people they are. Such monuments are of great importance not only for that
time, but also for the present. They are valued for attracting tourists to our country and making
the name of Uzbekistan known throughout the world.
Unfortunately, due to wars, natural disasters and the human factor, many ancient monuments
are in danger of disappearing. For example, some historical monuments are being damaged due
to illegal excavations, vandalism and environmental degradation. Therefore, international
cooperation is necessary for the preservation and restoration of these monuments.
In addition, ancient architectural traditions find their place in modern architecture. Many
buildings being built today are inspired by ancient structures and designed based on their
principles. This testifies to the continuity of human cultural heritage and the relevance of ancient
knowledge.
The monuments of the ancient world are unique masterpieces of human thought and culture,
and they are not only the highest examples of architectural art, but also an integral part of history,
science, and religious beliefs. These monuments serve as an invaluable source for studying the
various stages of human civilization, learning from them, and passing them on to future
generations. Therefore, it is the sacred duty of each of us to preserve, research, and popularize
them.
References:
1.
https://uz.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishtar_darvozasi_(Bobil)
2.
Data from the National Encyclopedia of Uzbekistan (2000-2005) were used.
3.
https://uz.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parfenon
4.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colosseum
5.
Islam Karimov. "High spirituality is an irresistible force." T.: "Spirituality", 2008;
6. Akhmedov B. “Sahibkiran Temur. Tashkent. 1996
7. Boynonzarov Fayzulla. “Antique World”. “Mehnat” 1989;
8. Bakhodir Eshov. “History of the Ancient Cities of Central Asia” - T.: “Ma’rifat”,
2009.
