Ancient City of Bukhara | Uzbekistan 🇺🇿

Welcome to Bukhara, one of Uzbekistan's most historic and culturally rich cities! Bukhara is often referred to as a city-museum, and for good reason. With over 140 architectural monuments, it represents over 2,000 years of history.
Our journey begins at the Ark of Bukhara, a fortress that once served as the residence of Bukhara’s rulers. As we approach, the massive walls of this ancient structure seem to rise up from the desert itself, a reminder of the power that the Emirs once wielded here. Built in the 5th century, the Ark is one of the oldest parts of Bukhara, and walking through its gates feels like stepping back in time. Inside, we explore the courtyards and remnants of what used to be royal apartments, administrative buildings, and even a prison. The panoramic views from the Ark’s walls offer a great perspective of Bukhara, with its low, mud-brick buildings and towering minarets.
From the Ark, we walk to the Bolo Haouz Mosque, just across the street. Built in the early 18th century, this mosque stands out with its intricate wooden pillars and colorful ceilings. The reflection of the mosque in the nearby pool (haouz) creates a perfect picture of Bukhara’s traditional architecture. The mosque is still active, and the peaceful atmosphere here makes it a perfect place to pause and reflect on the spiritual significance of Bukhara.
Now, let’s head to one of the most iconic sights in Bukhara: the Kalyan Minaret. Known as the "Tower of Death" for its dark history of executions, this 12th-century minaret is 47 meters tall and has survived invasions, earthquakes, and wars. The intricate brickwork on the minaret is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, and it’s no wonder it’s considered a symbol of Bukhara. The adjacent Kalyan Mosque and Mir-i-Arab Madrasa complete this stunning complex. As we walk around the wide courtyard of the Kalyan Mosque, we are struck by the scale of this place-it's large enough to accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers. The cool, blue-tiled interiors of the mosque offer respite from the desert heat, and the quietude of the space invites contemplation.
Next, we dive into Bukhara’s famous trading domes, which date back to the 16th century when the city was a major trading hub on the Silk Road. There are three main trading domes still standing today: Toki Zargaron, Toki Sarrafon, and Toki Telpak Furushon, each specializing in different goods like jewelry, money exchange, and hats. Walking through these domes, you can feel the history of trade and commerce that was the lifeblood of Bukhara for centuries. Today, these domes are filled with artisans selling handmade carpets, silk scarves, pottery, and more. It's the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir and experience the traditional craftsmanship of the region.
No visit to Bukhara is complete without seeing the Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble, one of the most beloved spots in the city. This complex is centered around a peaceful pool of water, surrounded by ancient trees and historic buildings like the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasa and the Kukeldash Madrasa. Lyabi-Hauz has a special charm, especially at sunset when the surrounding buildings are lit up, and locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the cool evening air. This is a great place to stop for tea at one of the many cafes that line the square, and sample some traditional Uzbek dishes like plov (a rice dish with meat and vegetables), shashlik (grilled meat skewers), and samsa (savory pastries).
Walking through Bukhara, you can’t help but notice the blend of ancient history with the everyday life of modern Uzbekistan. The city is alive with the sounds of market vendors, the call to prayer from mosques, and the chatter of tourists discovering the city for the first time. The narrow streets of the old town are perfect for wandering, with surprises around every corner-whether it’s a hidden courtyard, an old caravanserai, or a beautifully decorated door.
As our tour continues, we head to one of Bukhara’s traditional caravanserais, which served as rest stops for traders and travelers along the Silk Road. These caravanserais were not only places of rest but also centers of commerce and culture. Today, some have been transformed into hotels, giving visitors a chance to experience the history firsthand by staying in these atmospheric, centuries-old buildings.
Bukhara’s nighttime atmosphere is just as enchanting as during the day. As the sun sets, the city’s historic monuments are illuminated, casting a magical glow over the ancient walls and domes. Walking through the old city at night, with the soft lights reflecting off the brickwork, feels like being transported back in time. The quiet streets take on a peaceful, almost mystical quality, making it the perfect time to reflect on the day’s discoveries.