Bukhara is a city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true open-air museum. Here are 10 main attractions in Bukhara that every traveler should visit.
Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble
The Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble is an important center in Bukhara. This water reservoir has served as a meeting place for centuries, surrounded by bazaars and teahouses. Over time, the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah, Kukeldash Madrasah, and a khanaka were built nearby. Today, Lyabi-Hauz remains the liveliest spot in the city, surrounded by hotels, starting points for tours, and cafes in an oriental style by the water.
Poi-Kalyan architectural ensemble
The Poi-Kalyan architectural ensemble was created in the 12th century under Arslan Khan. Later, in the 16th century, it was expanded with a Friday mosque and the Miri Arab Madrasah Madrasah. The site was chosen on the ruins of an ancient mosque. The minaret, standing at more than 46 meters, has been preserved in its original form, and the madrasah still serves as an educational institution.
The Ark Citadel
The Ark Citadel is the oldest archaeological monument in Bukhara, built in the 10th century. Its foundation is linked to the legendary hero Siyavush. The great poet and scholar Omar Khayyam also lived here. The fortress once housed a unique library. Today, an architectural and art museum operates on the fortress grounds.
Bukhara trading domes
The trading domes of Bukhara were created due to the Great Silk Road passing through the city. At the crossroads of trade routes, dome-shaped markets, known as "toki", were constructed. These covered bazaars became centers for various types of markets. The four main domes — “Toki Sarrafon”, “Toki Telpak Furushon”, “Tim Abdulla-Khan”, and “Toki Zargaron” — offer everything from jewelry to rare books.
The Samanid Mausoleum
The Samanid Mausoleum, built in the 9th century, stands on the site of an ancient cemetery. Constructed in the traditional Sogdian style but with more durable materials, it symbolizes a cosmological view of the world. The square base represents the Earth, and the dome represents the heavenly vault. Inside, the mausoleum houses the remains of three prominent theologians, including the founder of the Samanid dynasty.
Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum
The Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum, also known as the "Source of Job", is named after the legend of the prophet Job, who struck the ground with his staff and created a spring for the locals. Built in the 12th century, the mausoleum does not contain tombs from that time but has been rebuilt several times, including during Timur's era. Today, it hosts a water museum and a carpet exhibition.
Bahoutdin Architectural Complex
The Bahoutdin Architectural Complex was once the center of a Sufi order. The complex includes the tomb of the order's leader, a mosque, khanaka, minaret, and madrasah. Of particular note is the arched sakkahana, surrounded by a legend: if you quench your thirst here and leave an offering, any wish will surely come true.
Chor-Bakr Necropolis
The Chor-Bakr Necropolis was originally located in a village but eventually became part of the city. It is the burial place of the Juybar Seyyids, a dynasty tracing its roots back to the Prophet Muhammad. The necropolis was founded to preserve unique tombs, and over the centuries, new buildings have been added to its vicinity. The entrance to the necropolis is adorned with distinctive gates, and the most recent tombs date back to the early 20th century.
Chor-Minor Madrasah
The Chor-Minor Madrasah was built in the early 19th century and is named after the four towers resembling minarets. It is also known as the Khalif Niyazkul Madrasah, after its founder. The unique paintings on each tower symbolize the world's main religions. Over time, living quarters were added to the madrasah, decorated in traditional style, which adds to the charm of this historical place.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, built in the early 20th century, served as the country residence of the Bukhara Emir. While the palace’s architecture reflects European style, the interior maintains the traditional division between the men's and women's quarters. Since 1927, it has housed a museum of decorative and applied arts, which has been frequently updated. One of the most popular exhibits is the palace’s interiors, which allow visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the past.