The Development of Science and Cultural Life in Ustrushana During the Muslim Renaissance: Based on Archaeological and Written Sources

Abstract

This article analyzes the development of science and cultural life in the territory of Ustrushana during the Islamic period on the basis of archaeological and written sources. It shows that Ustrushana’s geographical location, its proximity to the branches of the Great Silk Road, urban planning, trade and crafts, irrigated agriculture, and defensive structures were important factors in the economic and cultural development of the region. The article also highlights the activities of the muhaddiths and faqihs who came from Ustrushana and their scholarly ties with Mawarannahr and other centers of Islamic learning. Using the examples of archaeological monuments of the Jizzakh oasis, such as Dizak, Kaliyatepa, Urda, Kizlartepa, Turtkultepa, and the Khudaysar rabat, the correspondence between the information in written sources and material evidence is examined.