HISTORIC SITES Sher-Dor Madrassah Sher-Dor or “Lion” Madrassah was built in the 17th century. Only the sons of wealthy families studied here, and they came from all over Central Asia. Training could last from ten to twenty years. The only subject students were required to take was the Koran, all the other subjects were optional and could be selected by the students according to their interests. The Madrassah was considered as radical in its uses of animal figures (the two figures in the corners are lions) which are usually prohibited in Islamic law. Tilya-Kori Madrassah Tilya-Kori (Gilded) Madrassah was built 10 years after Sher-Dor Madrassah. It was not only a place for training students but it also played the role of a grand mosque. The two-storied façade decorated with beautiful patterns, the dormitory building surrounding the vast courtyard and the abundantly gilded ornaments in the mosque’s main hall are among the stunning highlights of the madrassah which also were fundamental in naming the mosque, Til-Kori.
UZBEKISTASAMARKAND HISTORIC SITES Fees: 2,400 som Location: Rudakiy Road, M-37, Samarkand Contact: (+998 71) 233 5382 Coordinates: 39° 39’ 47.01” N 66° 59’ 16.83” E Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble The Shah-i-Zinda, meaning“The Living King” is a world famous necropolis which includes mausoleums and other ritual buildings of the 9th, 14th and 19th centuries. It is not only the oldest monument in Islamic architecture, it is also an important pilgrimage site in Samarkand for both locals and tourist. The main body of Kusam-ibn-Abbas is situated in the northeastern part of the ensemble. This unique complex of Shah-i-Zinda was formed over nine (11th – 19th) centuries and now includes more than twenty buildings. Afrosiab Settlement “Everything I have heard about Samarkand is true, except the fact that it is more beautiful than I could imagine“ said Greek King Alexander the Great who invaded Samarkand in 329 B.C. The ancient settlement of Afrosiab is situated on the spurs of Chupan-Ata hills to the northeast of the present-day Samarkand. According to legends, it was here, on the banks of the river Siab, that Turanian king and hero Afrosiab, a character of the folk epic ‘Shahnama’, founded the town that then became the capital of Sogdiana. The Afrosiab site appeared as gloomy yellowish hills. Its panoramic view can be viewed from the citadel’s top. Location: Tashkent Road, Samarkand Coordinates: 39° 40’ 10.70” N 66° 59’ 15.25” E Ulugbek Observatory After Mirzo Ulugbek’s death, the observatory was destroyed. Only in 1908, archaeologist Vyatkin found the very first document where the observatory’s location was mentioned. Unfortunately, only underground parts of the sextant and basis of the building were saved. The Observatory of Ulugbek has been so famous because of the publishing of the “Ulugbek Zidj”, a book that consists of a theoretical description and drawings of about 1,000 celestial bodies. With amazing accuracy, the length of a star year by Ulugbek’s calculation is equal to 365 days 6 hours 10 minutes 8 seconds whereas the actual length by modern data is 365 days 6 hours 9 minutes 9.6 seconds. The deviation is only less than a minute despite not having any advanced optical instruments. Location: Tashkent Road, Samarkand Contact: (+98866) 235 0345 Coordinates: 39° 40’ 30.02” N 67° 0’ 20.41” E
HISTORIC SITES Bibi Khanum Mosque After his Indian campaign in 1399, Temur decided to undertake the construction of a gigantic mosque in his new capital, Samarkand. The Bibi Khanum mosque, dedicated to his wife Bibi, was built using precious stones captured during Amir Temur’s conquest in India. This immense edifice was once the largest structure ever built using unfired, un- reinforced mud brick. Bibi was buried in a tomb located in a madrassah complex just across the main road which leads from the old city of Afrosiab to the center of the Temurid city at the Registan. (The tomb is currently being restored) As Blair and Bloom suggest, “Temur’s mosque was designed not only to continue the Iranian imperial tradition, but also to symbolize his conquest of the world.” Fees: 1,200 som Location: Tashkent Street, Samarkand Coordinates: 39° 39’ 38.84” N 66° 58’ 44.85” E Ruhabad Mausoleum Sheikh Burkhan ad-Din Sagardji who was highly respected by contemporaries of Temur, his wife Bibi-Halifa and their ten children, was buried here. Burkhan ad-Din Sagardji had a righteous mode of life and was respected for his high moral qualities. He was married to a Chinese Princess and died in China. The body of the saint was brought to Samarkand and buried here with his children. It was Sagardji who personally asked to be buried in Samarkand which he called “the city of God”. Legend says that under the dome there is a box containing seven hairs of the Prophet Mohammed. The laconic domed Ruhabad Mausoleum (The Abode of Spirit) is located near the Gur Emir Mausoleum. Location: Registan Street, Samarkand Coordinates: 39° 39’ 3.14” N 66° 58’ 5.69” E
SAMARKAND HISTORIC SITES UZBEKISTA Location: Bustansaroy Street, Samarkand Coordinates: 39° 38’ 54.34” N 66° 58’ 8.35” E Gur Emir Mausoleum - Tomb of the King The Gur Emir is the mausoleum of the Asian conqueror Tamerlane (also known as Temur) in Samarkand (now in Uzbekistan). Gur-Emir means “Grave of Emir”. The Gur-Emir Mausoleum was built in 1404 for Temur’s grandson Muhammad Sultan. He was the heir apparent of throne after Timur, but in 1404 he died and Temur ordered to buid big mausoleum for his beloved grandson. In 1405, Temur died in Otrar city and his sons decided to move his body and bury him near his favourite grandson. From that time on, this mausoleum was called the “burial-vault of Temurids”. Every headstone is made from marble, only Temur’s headstone is from nephritis, it was brought by order of Ulugbek and put on Temur’s grave. In June 1941, Samarkand was part of the Soviet Union, and Soviet scientists came to the mausoleum and opened the sarcophagus to study the body of Temur and found the inscription: “Whosoever opens my tomb shall unleash an invader more terrible than I am”. Mausoleum of Ak-Saray OneofthemostmysteriousbuildingsinSamarkand is the Mausoleum of Ak-Saray. Externally, there is no attractive exterior decoration and the dome was not completed. However, the inner interior does not conform to the outer design - large richly gilded fragments of ornamental paintings in the “kundal” style (laying paints with gold covers on the relief ornament) remain on its walls, sails, and dome. The relief, gold and wide colour gamut of vegetative patterns remind of rich carpet fabrics. Locals say some headless person is buried in the special niche by the eastern wall. It might be a tomb of Ulugbek’s son Abdul Latif who was executed for murder of his father. Location: Registan Street, Samarkand
HISTORIC SITES Location: Tashkent Street North East of the Registan, Afrosiab, Samarkand Coordinates: 39° 40’ 24” N 66° 59’ 40” E Tomb of Old Testament Prophet Daniel On the shore of Siyob, a small tributary of Zerafshan River, there is a sacred place, which keeps the relics of Daniel, the Old Testament Biblical Prophet. Who is actually buried in the Samarkand mausoleum? According to stories, relics of St. Daniel were brought by Amir Temur. Locals say that Tamerlane took the military campaign to Asia Minor, conquering almost all cities, but when his huge army arrived in the small city in Iran, Susa, he couldn’t invade it, because the city showed unexpected resistance and did not yield the city to the invincible army. Amir Temur asked the local people and his spiritual teacher why he couldn’t conquer the city and they told him that the city was protected by the spirit of St. Daniel, the Old Testament Jewish Prophet. According to another legend, the Mongol tyrant Temur attempted for many years to conquer Syria but was unsuccessful. One of his minister suggested it was because the saint from the Biblical times, Daniel, was buried there. Temur then sent his army to where Daniel was entombed in Syria, and after a fierce fight with the Syrians, was able to take his body back to Uzbekistan. Ishrat-khan Mausoleum Location: Ishrat-khan which means “House of Southeast of Registan Square, Samarkand Joy” is a remarkable monument in the second half of the 14th century. Legends told that it was a burial place for women of aristocratic or a family burial place. The place was never renovated after the earthquake in the 19th century when Tamerlane’s grandson Ulugbek rushed into the hall forcing everyone to leave the hall, in accordance with the horoscope, his grandfather Amir Temur is in danger during the feast in Ishrat-khan. Not long after they left, earthquake ruined part of the mausoleum. Although the monument was never renovated, you will still be impressed with their architectural harmony.
UZBEKISTASAMARKAND HISTORIC SITES Khodja Akhror Ensemble This site is the grave for the “Naqshbandiyya” Sufi order’s leader. “He is the Khodja of Khodjas” the person who knows the importance of the people. Khodja Akhror was buried near Samarkand, white stone and epitaphs were on the grave of Khodja. It is an important pilgrimage place as it was believe to be one of the sacred cemeteries of Muslims. Nodir Divan Begi, one of the rulers of Samarkand in 1630, ordered to construct a madrassah and mosque. Location: Rudakiy Street, M-37, Samarkand Khodja Abdi Darun Mausoleum The ancient cemetery, Khodja Abdi Darun Ensemble buried the Arabian lawyer of the 15th century. Darun which means “internal” indicates the tomb is situated inside the city of Samarkand. Multiple restorations have changed the architecture. The interior of the mausoleum is more than modest; there are no gold paintings or ceramics here. Walls, sails, dome of the mausoleum are plastered by white alabaster. Almost all of its area is occupied by the big gravestone. Location: Sadriddin Ayniy Old Town, Samarkand
HISTORIC SITES Saint Hazrati (Hizr) Mosque One of the oldest and most legendary mosques in Uzbekistan is the Hazrati Hizr Mosque in Samarkand. This mosque was built on the hill diagonal to the Bibi Khanum Mosque in the 18th century. It was said that Hazrati Hizr was the god of water. Saint Hizr was very famous among the population of Central Asian oases including settled and nomadic people. He was considered to be a giver of good luck, abundance and a kind patron of good people, workers and travellers. The mosque for Hazrati Hizr was erected in Samarkand in the medieval period. Location: Rudakiy Road, Samarkand Coordinates: 39° 39’ 47.01” N 66° 59’ 16.83” E Namozgokh Mosque According to legends, he was the brother of Kusama Ibn Abbas who was supposedly buried in the 11th century in Samarkand’s Shah-i-Zinda complex and was the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad. Imam al-Bukhari Mausoleum The mausoleum of Imam al-Bukhari in Samarkand is a very impressive sight. It is is a masterpiece of modern Uzbek architecture based on traditional oriental style. The mausoleum of Imam al-Bukhari lies straight ahead. Inside the mausoleum of Imam al-Bukhari there is a marble tomb, but the real burial site of Imam al-Bukhari is actually below that tomb. The rectangular tomb is cased in polished marble of many colours, and before it, is the gravestone, Arabic words carved upon it briefly summarizing the Imam’s life. Location: Northeast of M-37, Samarkand Coordinates: 39° 48’ 53” N 66° 56’ 41” E
SAMARKAND HISTORIC SITES UZBEKISTAMuseum of History and Art of Location: Mahmud Qashqariy Street, Samarkand Uzbek People Coordinates: 39° 39’16”N 66° 57’05”E The Samarkand Museum of History and Art of the Uzbek People is one of the oldest and largest museums in Central Asia. Opened in 1896, it is situated in a separate building next to the Registan square since 1978. The museum houses around 200,000 exhibits, including collections of archaeology, numismatics, ethnography, manuscripts and historical documents covering the history and culture of the region from the early and middle Paleolithic ages to the beginning of the 20th century. Samarkand Paper Work Shop Uzbek writer and scholar, Alisher Navoi called paper “wings that spread around the thoughts of wise men”. Here, as many centuries ago, one can see with one’s own eyes the process of manually producing the famous Samarkand paper in accordance with the old technology. In 650, the soldiers who escaped Chinese captivity created the first paper. The first paper mill in Baghdad appeared only half a century after paper production was started in Samarkand. Samarkand paper with its high quality forced out from the markets the various kinds of Egyptian paper and leather. Location: Konigil village (10km away from the centre of Samarkand, on the way to Bukhara) Coordinates: 39° 40’ 03” N 66° 00’ 27” E
SHOPPING Registan Supermarket Location: Mirzo Ulugbek Street, Samarkand Operation Hours: 10am – 2pm Coordinates: 39° 39’ 19” N, 66° 57’ 26” E This place is well known for their craft Siyab Bazaar products such as ceramic. Textiles and Location: Tashkent Road, Samarkand various selection of carved wood are Operation Hours : 10am – 3pm sold as souvenirs. Coordinates: 39° 39’ 44” N, 66° 58’ 48” E Samarkand Ceramic Workshop Siyab Bazzar is covered with a dome. Do not be Location: Registan Tilya-Kari afraid of the communication barrier that you might face, walk down the bazaar to experience the life of Madrassah, Samarkand the locals. Samarkanids are very friendly. Operation Hours: 10am – 3pm Coordinates: Central Departmental Store 39° 39’ 42” N, 66° 59’ 32” E Address: 17, Uzbekistan Avenue, Tashkent At the Registan, look out for the Contact : (+99871) 233 6288, Samarkand Ceramics Workshop, one of the few places still practicing the (+99871) 233 8274 Samarkand school of ceramic making. Email : [email protected] Website : tumarket.vdnh.ru Tashkent Street in Samarkand Operation Hours : 9am – 7pm (Mon – Sat) Location: Tashkent Road, In front of Central Departmental Store has been voted as the best departmental store in Samarkand. A Bibi Khanum Mosque variety of brands in the premise such as Nike, Coordinates: Adidas and other international brands are 39° 39’ 33” N, 66° 58’ 49” E available here. You will find yourself snaking around to find unique antiques as souvenirs along this long stretch of stalls. Shopping in Registan Square Location: Mirzo Ulugbek Street, Samarkand Coordinates: 39° 39’ 19” N, 66° 57’ 26” E Registan Square has a wide variety of crafts and souvenirs to choose from. The former khudjras are now filled with stalls selling souvenirs ranging from cushion covers to pre- restoration photos of Tilya-Kori Madrassah. Small pottery, ceramic pieces, silk scarves, knives, pictures and rugs are among the most commonly found. Do visit the main lecture room in Sher-Dor Madrassah which carries better quality carpets.
SAMARKAND EATING OUT UZBEKISTAAstoria Restaurant Art Café Dastarhan Address: 14, Amir Timur Street. Samarkand Address: 25, Navoi Street, Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 310 0004 Contact: (+99891) 555 8888 Operation Hours : 11am – 12am Operation Hours : 11am – 11pm Registan Restaurant Address:5, Registan Street, Samarkand Contact: (+99890) 742 1548 Operation Hours : 6:00am – 11:00pm Platan Restaurant Staraya Arba Restaurant Address: 2, Pushkin Street, Samarkand (Staraya Arbaaraya Arba Restaurant) Contact: (+99866) 233 8049 Address: 32, Nodira Begim Street, Samarkand Operation Hours : 10am – 1am Contact: +(99866) 233 0577 Paradise Restaurant Operation Hours : 9am – 12am Address: 32, Nodira Begim Street. Email : [email protected] Website : www.newparadiseland.com Samarkand Doston House Contact: (+99866) 221 1985, Address: Kokili Kalon Street, Samarkand Contact: (+99865) 223 6787/ (+99866) 267 4085 Operation Hours : 11am – 2am (+99865) 190 2755 Email : [email protected] Website : www.newparadiseland.com Café Karimbek Venezia Restaurant Address: 194, Gagarin Street, Address: 27, Uzbekistan Street, Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 233 4322 Samarkand Old Arba Contact:(+99866) 221 2756 Address: 92, M.Kashgariy, Samarkand Operation Hours : 8am –11pm Contact: (+99866) 233 0577 Operating Hours : 9am – 12am Old City Address: 100/1, A. Jomiy Street, Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 233 8020 Operating Hours : 10am – 12am Muborak-opa Address: 16, Turon Street, Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 237 4621
ACCOMMODATION Ark Samarkand Lux Address: 13, Pendjikent Street, 140101 Samarkand Contact : (+99866) 261 8877 Panorama Grand Ideal Hotel Address: 96, Chorrakha Street Address: 10, Otahodjaev Street, 140100 Samarkand 140143 Samarkand Contact : (+99866) 234 0777 Contact : (+99890) 174 4559 Hotel Caravan Serail Chorrakha Address: 96, Chorrakha Street, Samarkand Contact : (+99866) 235 4967 (+99866) 210 0308 Website : www.hotelcaravanserail.com Timur The Great City Hotel Address: 84, Buxoro Street, Address: 19A, University Boulevard, 703011 Samarkand 140129 Samarkand Contact : (+99866) 235 0338 Email : [email protected] Furkat Guest House Address: 105, Mulokandov Street, Samarkand Contact: (+998 66) 235 3261 Email: [email protected]
UZBEKISTASAMARKAND Samarkand Plaza Address: 24, Dagbitskaya Street, ACCOMMODATION 140120 Samarkand Regal Palace Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 232 4099, Address: 1, Vohid Abdullo Street, (+99866) 232 3326 140130 Samarkand Email: [email protected] Contact : (+99866) 232 9999, Website: www.hotelsamarkand-plaza.com (+99866) 233 9999 Email: [email protected] Website: www.theregalpalace.com Antica B&B Advantage Hotel Address: 56 - 58, Iskandarov Street, Address: 2A, Benkov Street., 703012 Samarkand Samarkand, Uzbekistan B&B Dilshoda Orient Star Samarkand Address: 150, Oksaroy Street, Address: 33, Dagbitskaya Street, 140104 Samarkand 140120 Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 235 0387 Contact: (+99866) 235 2716 Website: www.hotel-dilshoda.com Email: [email protected] B&B Sevara 1 Hotel Address: 7, Shokirbekova, Samarkand B&B Timur The Great Address: 84, Bukharskaya Street, 703011 Samarkand Central Samarkand Hotel Address: 1, Kuk-Saray Square, Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 231 0211, (+99866) 233 4534 Email: [email protected] Website: www.hcentral.5u.com
ACCOMMODATION Shaxzoda Lux Hotel Address: 15, Atahodzhaeva Street, 140100 Samarkand Contact: (+99871) 200 4455 The Hotel Uzbegim Plaza Hotel Dilshoda Address: 32, Arifbaev Street, Address: 150, Aksaray Street,140104 Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 235 0387, (+99866) 231 0318 130140 Samarkand Email: [email protected] Contact: (+99866)232 2640 Hotel Ark Samarkand Address: 9B, Pendjikent Street, 140101 Samarkand Hotel Grand Samarkand Address: 38, B. Yalangtush Street, 140100 Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 233 2880 Website: www.grand-samarqand.com Sherdor Hotel Address: 91, Koshgari Street, 140100 Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 233 3633 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sherdor.com
SAMARKAND ACCOMMODATION UZBEKISTA Hotel President Address: 53, Shokhrukh Street., 703000 Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 233 2475 Email: [email protected] Website: www.uzhotelpresident.com City Hotel Hotel Asia Samarkand Address:19A, University Boulevard Street, Address: 50, Qosh-Hauz Street, Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 235 8230 Samarkand Hotel Grand Samarkand Superior Contact: (+99866) 233 0078 Address: 31, Bahodir Yalangtush Street, Email: [email protected] Website: www.cityhotel.uz Samarkand Contact : (+99866) 233 7766 Email: [email protected] Website : www.superior.grand-samarkand.com Hotel Malika Classic Address: 37, Khamraev Street, Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 237 0154 Website : www.malika-samarkand.com Hotel Malika Prime Address: 1/4, Universitetskiy Boulevard, Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 233 4349 Website: www.malika-samarkand.com Hotel Kamila Hotel Afrosiyob Palace Address: 26, Artyom Street, Address: 2, Registan Street, Samarkand Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 235 4039 Contact: (+99866) 233 6313 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.hotelkamila.com Website: www.afrosiyobpalace.com Bahodir B&B Address: 132, Mulokandov Street, Samarkand Contact: (+99866) 235 8529
The History The holiest city in Central Asia, honoured as ‘Noble Bukhara’ among Muslims (one of the seven holy cities of Islam) with its population of 263,400 has been inhabited for at least 5 milennia. Bukhara also has many name centuries ago, one of it was ‘Numijkat’. It has also been called ‘Bumiskat’ or in Arabic was ‘Madinat al Sufriya’ (The Copper City) and ‘Madinat Al Tujjar ‘ (The City of Merchants). Situated on the Silk Road trade centre, it is more than 2,000 years old. It is known as one of the most complete medieval cities in Central Asia. Monuments include the famous tomb of Ismail Samani, a masterpiece in the 10th century on top of large numbers of Madrassah in the 17th century. Before the Arab conquest, Bukhara owed its prosperity to the rich oasis. However, the great economic growth came to an end when Genghis Khan sacked the city in 1220 BUKHARA Asecond lease of life came in the 16th century when the Uzbek Shaybanids made it their capital known as Bukhara Khanate. After a long period of unrest and short-lived dynasties, it absorbed into Soviet Union in 1920 under the newly created Uzbek (USSR) in 1924. With the view of keeping intact the original beauty of Bukhara, UNESCO decided to commemorate in 1997 a 2500-year anniversary since the date of the city’s foundation and establish an international fund called ‘Bukhara-2500’. Significantly, the real importance of Bukhara lies not in its individual buildings but rather in its overall level of urban planning and architecture which began with the Shaybanid dynasty.
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UZBEKISTA BUKHARA HISTORIC SITES Fees: 5,000 som (Regional Studies Museum in the Ark Fortress) Location: Mirzo Khait Street, Bukhara Coordinates: 39° 46’39.65”N 64° 24’33.79”E The Ark The Ark of Bukhara or The Fortress, located in the city of Bukhara, Uzbekistan was initially built and occupied around the 5th century A.D. In addition to being a military structure, the Ark encompassed what was essentially a town that during much of the fortress’history was inhabited by the various royal courts that held sway over the region surrounding Bukhara. The Ark was used as a fortress until it fell to Russia in 1920. Currently, the ruins of the Ark are a tourist attraction and houses museums covering its history. The gentle high walls are more than half a thousand years old defending its emir’s ruler and today, it is a major architectural monument of Bukhara. Their walls soar to a height of 16 to 20 meters and have a perimeter of 800 meters. However, only one gate remains today. Before Genghis Khan took over Bukhara he destroyed and ransacked the fortress that served as the inhabitants of the city. In Avicenna’s book, it was cited: “I found in this library such books, about which I had never seen before in my life. I read them, and I came to know each scientist and each science. Before me lay gates of inspiration into great depths of knowledge which I had not surmised to exist.” However, the library was destroyed in one of the conquests of Bukhara. Ismail Samani Mausoleum This mausoleum is one of the most esteemed sights of Central Asia. Built in the end of 9th century, it is resting place of Ismail Samani, a powerful and influential Amir of the Samanid dynasty. According to archaeologists, it is one of the most ancient monuments in Uzbekistan with its artistic details of the brickwork displaying traditional features of pre-islamic culture. Later, other kings of this dynasty were also buried here. It is interesting to note that the building of this burial vault contradicted the Islamic rules at those days - the erection of any monuments above the graves of believers was forbidden. His mausoleum in Bukhara is recognized as a masterpiece of architecture for its perfection of its geometric design. Location: M. Ashrafi Street, Bukhara Coordinates: 39° 46’36.19”N 64° 24’3.97”E
HISTORIC SITES Bolo-Khauz Complex The Bolo-Khauz Complex is the only Registan’s monument that survived through thousands of millennia. It consists of a mosque, a minaret and a pond. It is one of the oldest constructions in the complex but it was drained as it became the source of diseases. Built by the order of Emir’s wife. Legend says that Emir Shakhmurad (1785 – 1800) built it for public prayers. Next to the mosque is a minaret which was built after the mosque in 1718. The minaret was reconstructed as it was slowly leaning to a critical point. Now, it looks just like 3 centuries ago. Today, the complex is one of the most Location: M. Ashrafi Street, Bukhara impressive sights in Bukhara. Although it Coordinates: 39° 46’40.15”N 64° 24’25.95”E is relatively young, it certainly deserves the recognition as a luxurious mosque with its impressive architecture and high carved wooden ceiling. It’s also known as the “mosque of forty columns”. Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum In ancient times, Saint Ayub came to Bukhara as a wanderer, settled down and an explosion by his followers created a well (Chashma) with clean and healing water. Over the well, stands a mausoleum called Chasma-Ayub which means “Job’s Spring” by nickname. In Uzbekistan, cult structures like this are called Kadamjoy which means “a footprint” to represent highly respected clergymen. According to Bible, Job was from Hebron but he died and was buried at Bukhara. The historical value of the monument consists of the exact date written on obverse surface (1208-1209 A.D) or 605 years in the Muslim Calendar. However, the mausoleum was repeatedly reconstructed; today, it consists of many chambers and various sizes of design which creates a special aura of seclusion. This site was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 18th January 2008 in the cultural category. Location: M. Ashrafi Street, Bukhara Coordinates: 39° 46’42.01”N 64° 24’7.65”E
BUKHARA HISTORIC SITES UZBEKISTAKosh-Madrasah: Bukhara (Modari-Khan Madrassah (1566 - 1567) & Abdullah-khan Madrassah (1558 – 1590) The Shaybanids’ architectural ensemble of Kosh-Madrassah which means “Double– Madrassah” was constructed around 1567 in honor of Abdullah-khan’s Mother and Abdullah-Khan respectively in 1588. Location:TinchlikTor Street, Bukhara Abdullah-khan Madrassah Coordinates: 39° 46’29.29”N 64° 24’17.19”E (1588-1590) Constructed with more complexities as compared to the Modari-Khan Madrassah, the entrance of the hallways forms a gallery with 2 passages to the courtyard. Located at an angle facing all major buildings, it is constructed to focus on the Mecca praying niche (Mihrab). Modari-Khan Madrassah (1557-1597) Richly designed with majolica with The Modari-Khan Madrassah has survived geometricals of five, eight and nine point much better than many structures of the stars at the dome, it is one of the most later period, though it was built in an outstanding architecture in Central Asia economical way. It uses mosaic brickwork considering the fact the architect bravely with fantastic geometrical patterns on deviated canon rules in planning, moving the facade and guldasta towers with the capacities asymmetrically beyond the date of the madrassah’s construction rectangular building outlines, including mentioned with poems in majolica new forms in usual composition. Also, paintings over the entrance. there is a yard with a spacious hall on a twelve-sided light drum also known as “Abdullah-khan sky-light”. The hall includes 20 khudjras, situated in 2 tiers. Plain geometrical patterns substitute the intricate ornamentation. The great skills of the unknown architect who created the perfect forms and harmonious architectural spaces of the madrassah made this monument to become one of the masterpieces of Bukhara’s medieval architecture. Today, the yard and the khudjra cells of Modari-Khan Madrassah accommodate national arts and crafts fairs. It also houses one of Bukhara’s most exotic restaurants where guests can enjoy the dishes prepared in accordance to age- old recipes.
HISTORIC SITES Location: 2 Eshony Pir Street, 705000 Bukhara Coordinates: 39° 46’33.50”N 64° 24’55.89”E Poi-Kalyan Ensemble Operating as a main ensemble in Bukhara situated along the way to the trade crossing of ‘four bazaars’, Poi-Kalyan means ‘the pedestal of the Great’. Consisting of 4 medieval architectures, the Kalyan Mosque (pg69) and Mini-Arab Madrassah (pg70) faces each other and between them is the Kalyan Minaret (pg70) and to the south is a small Amir-Allimkhan Madrassah. The Friday-prayer Kalyan Mosque is one of the ancient buildings of Poi-Kalyan Square. The capital mosque of all Muslim towns is not just a temple but is also a public life centre. Moreover, according to some sources, at one time, it served as a beacon for the caravans coming across the desert surrounding Bukhara. Kalyan Mosque The ancient building of Poi-Kalyan Square also known as the second largest in Central Asia after Bibi- Khanum can accommodate up to 12,000 people. The mosque replaced the previous Qarakhanid cathedral mosque built in 12th century. Below the arch is an inscription in Arabic characters of the date Kalyan Mosque was constructed, 1514. This mosque is comparable with Temurid cathedral mosques in Samarkand. Peculiarly, standing with your back to the mikhrab, you can see the huge peshtak of Mini-Arab Madrassah, rising from behind the opposite portal of the mosque.
UZBEKISTA BUKHARA HISTORIC SITES Kalyan Minaret Kalyan Minaret when translated means ‘The Great Tower’ but is also well known as ‘The Tower of Death’. There are many legends about the Kalyan Tower. Many people have been executed by being pushed to their death from the top of the tower. A sacred symbol of Bukhara, the minaret is not only used to call Muslims to prayers but also symbolized the authoritative power of their spiritual leader. Beneath the minaret is a spiral staircase with 104 steps. The minaret is 45.6m and inside the tower contains an inscription carved on cornice which marks the year the minaret was built, 1127 along with the name of architect – Bako. At one point of time, there was a story of a Shah who wanted to kill his wife. He ordered her execution by pushing her down the tower. Fortunately, as she supposedly fell to her death, her dress parachuted her gently to the ground. Mini-Arab Madrassah Situated opposite Kalyan Mosque, this is one of the most esteemed Islamic University operating during the post-Soviet Territory. Its architecture and décor represents the highest culture and taste in the 16th century. The external decor is formed by carved mosaics of vegetative ornaments and Sulth scripts. The Shaybanid-khan’s tomb with wooden gravestone in Yemen style is located at the foot of Sheikh Mini-Arab’s tomb. Ensemble of Khoja-Gaukushon One of the largest architectural ensemble including a mosque, a minaret and a madrassah, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the past, it was a large trade square of Bukhara. It got its name due to the slaughter house which was once in this site. ‘Gaukushon’ is translated as ‘killing of bulls’. The initiator of the Khoja was Djuybarsk Sheikh Khoja Sayyid reflecting the name of the mosque and the ensemble in whole. Location: Tinchlik Tor Street, Bukhara Coordinates: 39° 46’ 17.56” N 64° 24’ 18.89” E
HISTORIC SITES Balyand Mosque Ensconced in the rich district of Bukhara, Balyand Mosque is one the most beautiful mosques in the city. Meaning ‘high’ in Uzbekistan, the mosque is not notable for its phenomenal height or its high columns but its high foundation elevating the mosque. Consisting of two parts- ‘winter’ and ‘summer’; winter is located inside the cube-shaped column and summer is at the terrace surrounded by high columns. The ceiling of the mosque is unique: it is made from planks, decorated with geometrical ornament and small wooden cupolas and is also decorated with aver polychromic painting with gilding along with vegetative ornament and inscriptions. Today, this beautiful mosque continues to perform its function and is protected by UNESCO as a world heritage site. Location: Tinchlik Tor Street, Bukhara Coordinates: 39° 46’ 17.56” N 64° 24’ 18.89” E Address :33 Khoja Nurobod Street, Bukhara Operation Hour: 9am- 6 pm / 9am – 2.30 pm (Tuesday) **Closed onWednesday Ulugbek Madrassah This madrassah was built in 1417 by Ismail ibn Isfaghani under the order of Mirzo Ulugbek, astronomer and mathematician and son of Amir Temur. Mirzo Ulugbek, who ruled Movarounnahr in the first half of the 15th century, built three madrassahs. The first one was constructed in Bukhara in 1417. The Ulugbek Madrassah is not only unique with its geometrical patterns of decorative brickwork, ornamental mosaics and majolica but also for its Kufic inscriptions in the Arabic script on both the interior and exterior of the facades. One remarkable inscription carved on the entrance says “Aspiration to knowledge is a duty of each Muslim man and woman”. Also you can find here another carved saying: “Let the doors of God’s blessing will be every day opened over the circle of people, versed in book learning”. Today, it is one of the most beautiful architectural sights distinguished by the austerity of forms and harmony of colours. The madrassah hosts a museum of history of the restoration of the architectural monuments of Bukhara, which was established in 1994.
UZBEKISTA BUKHARA HISTORIC SITES Lyabi-Hauz Architectural Complex The largest artificial reservoir of medieval Bukhara, Lyabi-Hauz means ‘Shore of Pool” is very popular among travelers. It is located in the centre of Bukhara and consists of three monumental edifices of Madrassah of Kulkeldash (pg72), Lyabi-Hauz(pg72) and Nodir Divan-begi Madrassah(pg72). The complex possesses a distinctive character of an architectural complex; it was constructed around a large hauz (pond) which had formed a perfect architectural ensemble with reservoir in the middle. Location: Bakhowuddin Nakshbandi Street, Bukhara Coordinates: 39° 46’ 22.34” N 64° 25’ 17.61” E Madrassah of Kulkeldash (1568 - 1569) This is the largest madrassah ever built in 16th Century in Bukhara (80x60m) by Abdullah-khan II. It was also one of the biggest Islamic schools in Central Asia. It has one hundred and sixty khudjras (dwelling cells) within two stories on a perimeter of 2-aivan courtyard. It also became the symbol of a powerful state under the leadership of Abdullah-khan. The madrassah has a very interesting composition. Its external walls have open balconies and beautiful ornamentation. One of the famous Central Asian writers from the 20th century, Sadraddin Aini (1878-1954) studied here. Madrassah of Nodir Divan-begi Lyabi-Hauz On the west side of Lyabi-hauz is Lyabi-hauz has turned out to be the another architectural monument, the largest pond among 80 other ponds in Nodir Divan-begi Madrassah built Bukhara at that time with 46 meters in in 1619. It is a multi-cell building length, 35 meters in width and 5 meters with a central cupola hall, with in depth. unique niches on every corner of Ponds were important in the 16th century the building side. There are ample because it was their main water source. khudjras in the building. In the past, it was built as a caravanserai, housing traditional craft shops and jewellery. In the evening, it became a concert site with traditional music and beautiful ladies performing folk dances and singing melodious traditional songs. However, during the opening, Imamkuli-khan (1611-1642) advised his minister on construction of the building “for the glory of Allah” by advice of Sufi sheikhs. So, Nodir Divan-Begi had to convert it into a madrassah.
HISTORIC SITES Entrance Fee: 5,000som. Location: 22, Khoja Nurobod Street, Bukhara Operation Hours: 9am – 5pm (Museum of word carving Art) Coordinates: 39° 46’34.69”N 64° 25’4.08”E Madrassah of Abdulaziz-khan Bukhara’s ruler, Abdulaziz-khan ordered to build a “kosh” technique madrassah, which is luxurious in decoration and had to surpass all other madrassahs built before him. The Abdulaziz-khan Madrassah, which is located opposite to the Ulugbek Madrassah in Bukhara was built in 1652. Facing one another, these two madrasahs compose a single architectural ensemble called Kosh Madrassah, which is common in Bukhara. These two madrassahs, Madrassah of Ulugbek and Madrassah of Abdul Aziz Khan, stand facing each other for many centuries and represent two dynasties which once ruled Bukhara - Temurid and Ashtarkhanid. Constructed in the middle of the 17th century, it had surpassed the scale and décor of Ulugbek Madrassah. Abdulaziz (died in 1681) was a member of Bukhara Astarkhanid dynasty (1601-1747). Museum of Wood Carving Art The Museum of Wood Carving Art which is located inside Abdulaziz-khan Madrassah, exhibits the finest collections of Bukharian’s wood carving art. This place was marked as the flourishing period for the Bukharan school of wood carvers. Wide range of wood carving artwork displayed around the mosque as decorative item shows their sophisticated skills throughout the millennia. Khoja-Zainuddin Khanaka This historical site from the 16th Century contains an interesting spillway shaped like a dragon. It is surrounded by multiple ponds. Outside the Khanaka is the tomb of Khoja-Zainuddin Khanaka decorated with mosaic and paintings done using the qundal technique. Two sides of the khanaka are surrounded by the aivan with columns having stalactite capitals and marble bases. The reservoir with stone steps and stone carving area is located in the court yard in front of the aivan. The Khanaka operates as a quarter mosque since the 19th century.
UZBEKISTA BUKHARA HISTORIC SITES Location: Buxoro Shahri Street, Mokhi Khosa District, Bukhara Contact: (+98897) 442 4255 Coordinates: 39° 48’22.18”N 64° 27’19.49”E Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace – The Palace of Emir of Bukhara Palace Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa is located four kilometers north of Bukhara. It is the summer residence of the last emirs. It can also be translated as ‘the palace of the moon-like star’. The first structures were built in the mid 19th century during the rule of Emir Nasrullakhan. In the 1880s, his successor Muzaffarkhan built here a palace for his beloved wife Sitora-bonu. The main structures were built during the rule of the last Bukhara emir Alim-Khan during 1910. Special attention is given to the“white hall”. Its walls are decorated with tracery fretwork on ganch, carving on mirrors, designed by the most famous Bukharan artist master Shirin Muradov. Building the Sitorai, his hand was forever lost to frostbite. “National Arts and Crafts of Bukhara” was placed here on the 10th Century. Chor-Minor Madrassah The Chor-Minor Madrassah was built by a rich Bukharian merchant, Caliph Niyazkul from Turkmen. He spent his money to build this charming structure whose architecture style is more Indian than Uzbek. Carved in two colours is the Persian language, it shows the time of the construction was completed ‘Hijjra 1222’ (1807). In Central Asia, the architectural principles of construction of a madrassah was developed back in the middle ages and up to the 20th century, the local architects had obliged to these directives. However, the principles were lessened during the construction of Chor-Minor Madrassah, for the contractor had to comply with the wishes and instructions of Caliph Niyazkul, who financed the project. The four minarets symbolize not only four directions but also four dynasties of Bukhara rulers which are the Samanids, Karakhanids, Shaybanids and Mangyts. Although Chor-Minor is called a‘madrassah’ today in reality, it is only a chartak- main entrance to the madrassah because only the entrance of the madrassah survived throughout the millennia. Location: Mektar Anba Street, Bukhara Coordinates: 39° 46’ 29.00” N 64° 25’ 43.00” E
HISTORIC SITES Entrance Fee: 7,000 som Location: 2, Balimanova Street, Bukhara Operation Hours: 9am – 6pm / 9am – 2.30pm (Tuesday) **Closed onWednesday Coordinate: 39° 46’ 45.11” N 64° 24’ 50.13” Zindan One of the most mysterious sights of Bukhara is known as Zindan which was constructed in 18th century. The word “zindan” derived from the Persian language means: “prison”, “dungeon”, “a hole for prisoner’s confinement”. Consisting of several debt chambers, punishment cell and underground dungeon, Zindan is laid out from burnt bricks about 5 meters in diameter and 6.5 meters depth. The prison could not accommodate more than 40 people and it shows that the crime rate in Bukhara was low. The real horror and revulsion were caused by the agony that awaits the unfortunates who were condemned to rot in jail, known as the Bit-hana – “bug pit”. This terrible prison was full of scorpions and poisonous insect whose bites are extremely painful and deadly. Locked up inside the Zindan, the prisoners usually die on the second or third day in terrible convulsions. Prisoners are judged twice a month where the Emir decides who to kill or discharge. Today, it is a museum for tourist excursions. A gravestone and the tomb of prisoners “Saint Kuchkar-Ata” (8th century) are located at the top of Zindan. Mausoleum of Saifeddin Boharzi Sheikh Saifeddin Boharzi died in 1261 was an outstanding pupil of Khorezm Sufi Nadjm ad-Din Qubro who died in 1220. He chose Bukhara for preaching where he founded the famous “qubraviyyah khanaka” (muslim hospice) which then he converted Golden Horde’s Khan Berke into Islam. Mausoleum of Buyan-Kuli-Khan Chagataid Buyan-Kuli-Khan died in 1358. He is the grandson of Duva-Khan who died in 1307 and was a pupil to Seif ad-Din Boharzi. He formally enthroned Buyan-Kuli- Khan to rule on Duva-Khan’s behalf. When the son of Kazagan, Amir Abd-Allah took power, he executed Bayan-Kuli-Khan with the reason being Abd-allah wanted to marry Buyan-Kuli-Khan’s wife. Buyan-Kuli-Khan was buried near the tomb of his teacher Seif ad-Din Boharzi. The small mausoleum was decorated with carved glazed terracotta of blue, dark blue and white colours.
BUKHARA HISTORIC SITES UZBEKISTA Location: Lyabi Hauz, Bukhara Contact: (+99865) 224 1591 Magok-i Attari Mosque (Museum of Carpets) Magok-i Attari is translated as ‘mosque in the pit’ or literally ‘deep mosque’. In the 15th century Abdulaziz-khan I financed the overhaul of the mosque , which was completed in 1549. The new eastern (upper) portal was constructed as the ancient southern portal remained under the several meters of beneath the earth. Now the southern facade is completely excavated and restored. It is believed that before the construction of the first synagogue in Bukhara, Jews prayed here in the same room with the Muslims. The mosque now houses the Museum of Carpets whereby there are fine examples of 18th to 20th century carpets from Uzbekistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Armenia and Turkey. Faizullah Khojayev House Museum Operation Hours: This building was once the house of 9am – 6pm (Monday, Thursday - Sunday) Faizullah Khojayev (1896-1938), a famous 9am – 2:30 pm (Tuesdays) Bukharian politician. Located in Goziyon Closed: Wednesday neighborhood, the old section of the city, Location :70, Tukay Street, Bukhara it is a splendid example of the 19th century residential architecture. The total area of the building is three hectares. It consists of a household section and havli darun, inside, female area and havli berun, external, male area. The balconies, reception and living rooms of the house demonstrate splendid examples of woodcarving and wall painting. Like other rich houses, it’s built around three courtyards: the sais-khanah, or stable; the tashkari, for visitors; and the ichkari, for the family. The exhibits of special interest are the crockery items (19th century) made in the Gardner and Kuznetsov Russian factories, oriental musical instruments of the 19th century, the silk and velvet clothes of the Bukharans of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the 19th - 20th – century silver -and copperware of everyday use.
Lyab-i Hauz Tea Houses EATING OUT Address: Lyabi Hauz, Bukhara Operation Hours : 11am – 11pm Minzifa Restaurant Address: 6, Khujarushnoy Street, Bukhara Contact: (+99865) 224 6175 Operation Hours : 11am – 11pm Silk Road Spices Tea House Address: 5, Halim Ibodov Street, Bukhara Contact: (+99865) 224 2268 Email: [email protected] Website: www.silkroadspices.org Operation Hours : 9am – 7pm Nodir Devonbegi Madrassah Address: Lyabi Hauz, Bukhara Operation Hours : 9am – 6pm Bella Italia Restaurant Address : 125B. Nakshbandi Street, Bukhara Contact : (+99865) 599 5052 Operation Hours: 11am – 11pm National House of Rustam-aka Restaurant Address: 10, Sarofon Street, Bukhara Contact: (+99865) 777 3585 **Advance order (half a day before) is required
BUKHARA EATING OUT UZBEKISTA Chaikhana Bolo Hauz Address: At Registan Dolon Restaurant Address: 27, Khakhikat Street, Bukhara Contact: (+99890) 274 5366 Operation Hours : 9am – 12am Bella Italia Restaurant Kochevnik Address: 125B. Nakshbandi Street, Bukhara Address: Bakhautdin Naqshband, Contact: (+99865) 599 5052 Operation Hours : 11am – 11pm Old Town, Bukhara Caravan Restaurant Doston House Restaurant Address: 12, M. Ikbol street, Bukhara Address: 5, K. Kalon Street, Bukhara Contact: (+99893) 383 0505 Contact: (+99865) 190 2755 Operation Hours : 10am – 12am Street Food Choyxona Location: Near The Kunya Ark Fortress. Go across the street and through the small park. At the other side are two choyxonas - one on the right and one on the left. The one on the left has no sign but is Choyxona Teatr (it’s beside a theatre) and has occuped that spot for 80 years.
ACCOMMODATION Minzifa Boutique Guest House Address: 63, Eshoni Pyr Street, Bukhara Contact: (+99893) 383 0354 Email: [email protected] Website: www.minzifa.com Grand Bukhara Hotel Hotel Asia Bukhara Address: 8, Muminova Street., 705016, Address: Mekhtar Ambar Street, Bukhara Bukhara Contact : (+99890) 174 4559 Contact: (+99865) 224 6431 Bukhara Palace Hotel Email: [email protected] Address: 8, Navoi Avenue, 205016, Bukhara Website: www.marcopolo.uz Contact : (+99865) 223 0024 Email : [email protected] Website : www.hotelbukharapalace.com Lyabi House Hotel Komil Boutique Hotel Address: Bldg 7, N.Husainov Street, Address: 32, Arabon, 705018, Bukhara Contact: (+99865) 223 8780 Bukhara Email: [email protected] Contact: (+99865) 224 2484 Website: www.komiltravel.com Email: [email protected] Zargaron Plaza Hotel Website: www.lyabihouse.com Address: 256, Bakhouddin Nakshbandi Street, Bukhara Contact : (+99865) 224 5821 Email : [email protected]
BUKHARA ACCOMMODATION UZBEKISTA Amulet Hotel Address : 73, Nakshbandi Street, 705016 Bukhara Contact : (+99865) 224 5342 Email: [email protected] Website: www.amulet-hotel.com Avicenna Hotel Address: 216/1, Mirdustim Street, Bukhara Contact: (+98865) 930 4032 Omar Khayyam Hotel Address: 7, Khakikat Street, Bukhara Contact : (+99871) 137 4548 Email: [email protected] Website: www.hotelomarkhayyam.com Sultan Hotel Address: 100, B.Nakshband Street., 705016 Bukhara Contact: (+99865) 224 2435 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bukhara-sultanhotel.com Malika Bukhara Hotel Devon Begi Hotel Address: 25, Shaumyana Street, Bukhara Address: 95, Mekhtar Anbar Street, Bukhara Contact: (+998 65) 224 6256 Website: www.malika-bukhara.com Sasha & Son Guest House Address: 3, Eshoni Pyr Street, Bukhara Contact: (+99865) 224 4966 / (+99865) 224 2906 Website: www.sashasonhotels.com
The History Although archaeologists assert that the city has existed since the 6th century, the city of Khiva was rst recorded by Muslim travellers in the 10th century. By the early 17th century, Khiva had become the capital of the Khanate of Khiva under the Genghisid dynasty. Legend says that Khiva was founded by none other than Shem, the son of Noah (The Noah’s Ark) at the very least dating back to the 7th century or probably much earlier. Despite its seemingly romantic history as a Silk Road oasis, the city became most notable as Central Asia’s biggest slave trade center. Khiva may be a small city with its population barely over 40,000 but it is the best preserved stop on the old Silk Road giving tourists a broad appeal in tracing the historic trading route. In the Khorezm oasis of the Kara-Kum Desert, Khiva was the capital of the Khivan Khanate from 1592 until the Bolshevik take- over in 1920. KHIVA It is the former capital of Khwarezmia and the Khanate of Khiva. In 1873, Russian General Von Kaufman launched an attack on the city on 28 May 1873. Although the Russian Empire controlled the Khanate, it nominally allowed Khiva to remain as a quasi-independent protectorate. Followed by the Bolshevik seizure of power after the October Revolution, a short lived Khorezm People’s Soviet Republic was created in the territory of the old Khanate of Khiva before its incorporation into the USSR in 1924 when the city of Khiva became part of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic (USSR). Intent on transforming the traditionally teeming city into a living museum, Khiva was purged of much of its ancient bustle and its buildings were scrubbed down or, in the case of some landmarks, such as the 9th century Juma Mosque, was rebuilt and turned into public exhibits. Must-sees include the exquisite 19th century Tash Hauli Palace, the 225- foot tall Islam-Khodja Minaret, and Pakhlavan Makhmud’s mausoluem honouring the great Khivan philosopher and be listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
KHIVA 5. Juma Mosque and Minaret 6. Tash Hauli Palace *Map Courtesy of Uzbektourism 7. Kutlug-Murad-Inak 1. Kunya Ark Madrassah 2. Kalta Minor Minaret 8. Bagbanly Mosque 3. Monument to 99.. Islam Khodja Minaret & Al- Khorezmiy Madrassah 4. Muhammad Amin-Khan 1100. . The Ak-Mosque 1111.. Allakuli-Khan Madrassah Madrassah 1122. . Tim and Caravan-Serai of Allakuli-Khan 6 1 2 7 11 3 10 12 4 58 9 Walls of Itchan-Kala
HISTORIC SITES Palvan-Darvaza Gate Palvan-Darvaza means not only the eastern gates of Itchan-Kala but also a big shopping mall. In the 17th – 18th centuries this place was occupied by a prison. The gates were constructed by Allakuli-Khan in 1835. To the right of the gates at the exit of Itchan-Kala, there used to be a slave market until 1873 and inside the gates were where fugitive and rebellious slaves await their lot. Palvan-Darvaza Gate operates as the judgment centre to the Khan´s farmans (decrees) and to punished criminals, hence, the name of the gates which among locals are known as Pashshab darvaza “the Executioners´ Gate” or Kul darvaza “the Slaves’ Gates”. At the entrance side of Itchan-Kala, there is an inscription reading “Shakhri Khiva” (Khiva city) with its date of completion as 1221 of the Hijra - 1806A.D. Location: End of the main road of Itchan-Kala, Khiva Coordinates: 41° 22’ 38” N, 60° 21’ 41” E Tim and Caravan-Serai of Allakuli-khan In the 19th century, Khiva has developed intensive commercial contacts with Bukhara, Persia and Russia. As one of the major markets operating along the Silk Road, Allakuli-Khan built a huge caravan-Serai in the 1830s at the gate of Palvan- Darvaza. The caravan-serai consists of hotels, wholesale shops and many more facilities for the traders/merchants. Coordinates: 41° 22’ 42” N, 60° 21’ 41” E
UZBEKISTA Khiva HISTORIC SITES Itchan-Kala (Open-air Museum) Today, Itchan-Kala is an open-air museum. It is the older part of the city surrounded with walls and turned into the State Historical Archaeological Museum. The city is divided into two; the inner town is Itchan-Kala and the outer is Dichan-Kala. There are 4 gates in Itchan-Kala which is Ata-Darvaza, Palvan-Darvaza, Tash-Darvaza and Bagcha-Darvaza. Dichan-Kala had 10 gates but only 3 remain. Itchan-Kala was one of the major halting places for caravans in the Great Silk Route. UNESCO has declared it as a World Heritage Site because of the old monuments and the remnants of the ancient architecture. Itchan-Kala is recognized as one the finest historical towns along with Samarkhand and Bukhara. Location: Surrounding Kunya Ark Coordinates: 41° 22’ 44” N, 60° 21’ 28” E Juma Mosque and Minaret The cathedral mosque of Khiva known as Juma Mosque is located in Itchan-Kala on the road leading from the gates of Palvan-Darvaza to Ata-Darvaza. It is a typically archaic mosque with a flat ceiling on columns which has no analogue in Central Asia. There are 212 columns. The majority of them were carved from tree trunks in the 18th- 19th centuries. The most ancient columns might be taken from the medieval Khorezm capital ‘Kyat lay’ located at the bottom of the Amu Darya River. 21 columns dating back from the 10th-12th centuries have Arabian inscriptions in Kufi. 4 columns reminisce the columns in Bagbanly Mosque with inscriptions in Naskh. The columns of the 18th-19th centuries are well recognized due to Khiva’s typical floral-vegetative pattern. Moonlight through three holes in the ceiling and carved wooden columns create an exclusive atmosphere for prayer. Location: South of Muhammad-Khan Madrassah Coordinates: 41° 22’ 39” N, 60° 21’ 35” E
HISTORIC SITES Location: Itchan-Kala, Khiva Coordinates: 41° 22’ 40” N, 60° 21’ 38” E Allakuli-Khan Madrassah The madrassah has the name of the initiator of Khiva’s ruler Allakuli-Khan. There is a library on the first floor which is very important in the 18th century, founded by Allakuli-Khan. This library provides books for all students of Khiva’s Madrassah. This library was maintained by the income from Tim and Caravan-Serai of the Allakuli-Khan donation. The Madrassah’s architecture is very humble compared to others; the impressive part is the concentrated decor of the main courtyard facades. Every evening, there will be a folklore show presented by the locals which have been practiced since its inaugural. Kutlug-Murad-inak Madrassah Location: Itchan-Kala, Khiva The madrassah of Kutlug-Murad-inak is Coordinates: 41° 22’ 40” N, 60° 21’ 38” E located opposite to the Madrassah of Abdullah-Khan Madrassah Allakuli-Khan. Kutlug-Murad-inak was the The madrassah of Abdullah-Khan is uncle of Allakuli-khan. He was buried in this located to the south of Kutlug-Murad- madrassah. As he died outside the city and inak Madrassah. It was built by the wife local customs prohibited carrying the dead of Kutlug-Murad-inak in honour of their through Itchan-Kala’s gates or wall, it was 17-years old son Abdullah, killed in considered a bad sign to Khiva back then. Turkmenia in battle back in 1855. Today, The city gates were torned down to carry his madrassah is a museum to nature- the deceased through the gap in the wall related history which displays extinct and buried in the Madrassah entrance into wildlife, including a forlorn-looking Dichan-Kala. Kutlug-Murad-inak Madrassah seagull which is thousands of kilometres is the first 2 storey madrassah in Khiva away from the sea! Most animal exhibits comprising of 81 khudjras. This is also the are either extinct or extremely rare and only madrassah decorated with unglazed this provides a grim reminder of the Aral terracotta. Sea pollution. Cotton which is also one Location: Itchan-Kala, Khiva of the main wastes contributing the sea’s Coordinates: 41° 22’ 40” N, 60° 21’ 38” E decline, is also on display.
Khiva HISTORIC SITES Tash Hauli Palace / The Palace of UZBEKISTA Allakuli-khan The Tash Hauli Palace in Khiva was built in the 1830s as a royal residence by prominent Khiva ruler Allakuli-Khan (1826-42). Tash Hauli or ‘stone house’ represents the urban interpretation of the traditional stronghold country houses in Khorzem which is known as ‘Hauli’. It consists of three parts, grouped around the inner courtyards. The northern part was the Khan’s harem. At the southeast was the court office (arz-khana). In the center of Ishrat-hauli there is a round platform for the Khan’s yurt. Long labyrinths of dark corridors separate Location: the palace’s official centre and the family Opposite Kutlug-Murad-inak Madrassah courtyard. Its southern side is occupied by Coordinates: five main rooms; apartments for the Khan 41° 22’ 41” N, 60° 21’ 40” E and his four wives. The two-storied structure along the perimeter of the courtyard is for servants, relatives and concubines. Each aivan of the harem represents a masterpiece of Khivan applied arts with red-brown paintings covering the ceilings. Copper openwork lattices decorate the windows. The Tash Hauli Palace is listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1990. Location: K. Yaqubova Street, Khiva Coordinates: 41° 22’ 44” N, 60° 21’ 28” E Kunya Ark Kunya Ark or ‘Old fortress’ is the inner citadel of Itchan-Kala. It was founded in the 17th century by Muhammad-Erenk Khan (1687-1688). The Kunya Ark had formed a ‘city inside a city’ separated by a high wall. The Kunya Ark complex was rebuilt at the beginning of the 19th century. There’s only a single gate giving access to Kunya Ark located in the eastern wall which is also the only remaining part of Kunya Ark. The square near the entrance to Kunya Ark was used for military parades and field training. There was also a special place for executing criminals and a zindan (prison) adjoining to the eastern walls of Kunya Ark. The original building of the Khan’s reception (kurinysh-khana), constructed by Muhammad- Erenk was destroyed in the middle of the 18th century when Iranian troops invaded the Khanate. Today’s structures were built by Iltezer-khan in 1804-1806. The mint was founded by Muhammad-Rahim-khan I in 1806-1825 who completed tax reforms, established customs houses and start minting gold coins. The mosque was constructed by Allakuli- Khan in 1825-1842. The Khan’s throne was set in a niche in the southern wall. His treasury and depository of manuscripts were located in the western part of the kurinysh-khana decorated with magnificent ornamentation.
HISTORIC SITES Location: P. Kori Street, Khiva Coordinates: 41° 22’ 38” N, 60° 21’ 38” E The Ak-Mosque (“White Mosque”) / Anush-Khan Palace Ak-Mosque was built by Anush-khan in the middle of the 17th century. This is a small quarter mosque next to the gates of Palvan-Darvaza. The winter building with prayer hall has a white conical dome. The Mihrab is located in the middle of the southern wall. Ganch lattices decorate the windows of the mosque whereas epigraphic and ornamental carvings decorate the door. The inscriptions carved at the aivan reveal the date of construction, 1838-1842, and the names of the builders: Nur Muhammad, son of Adin Qalandar and Qalandar, son of Seyid Muhammad. Many of the majolica panels are executed in the medallion technique which is attributed to master craftsman Abdullah Djinn and only seen in Khiva. Madrassah of Muhammad Amin-Khan The Muhammad Amin-Khan Madrassah Sayid-Allauddin Mausoleum is the biggest medieval madrassah in The mausoleum of Sayid-Allauddin, burial Khiva, located opposite Kunya Ark at the vault of famous Eastern saint and Sufi gates of Ata-Darvaza.The Madrassah has sheikh is one of the ancient building in 125 khudjras and could accomodate up the city. It was reconstructed many times to 260 pupils. An inscription carved “This and the exact date of the construction is perfect building will eternally stand - a unknown, but according to historians the grace to our descendants”. The Madrassah building completed in the second half was built in 1851 by the order of Khiva of 16th century. Due to great numbers ruler Muhammad Amin-Khan and was of reconstruction of the mausoleum, named after him. Formerly, the Madrassah original elements by Amir Kulyal, the of Muhammad Amin-khan was one of architect were not preserved. the richest educational institutions; Sayid Allauddin, is a relative to Prophet the Chancery of the Supreme Muslim Muhammad, he preached Islam in Khiva Courtyard was located in this building. in the end of 13th century. He died in Today, the Madrassah of Mukhammad 1303 and fifty years later the mausoleum Amin-Khan accommodate tour agencies, a was erected on the grave of the saint. hotel, currency exchange offices and cafes. Since then, this site became one of the This magnificent building preserved its pilgrimage centers for Muslims from all historical look and even after a century, it over the world. still amazes residents and visitors of Khiva. Location: Itchan-Kala Street, Khiva Location: Itchan-Kala Street, Khiva Coordinates: 41° 22’ 41” N, 60° 21’ 21” E
Khiva HISTORIC SITES UZBEKISTA Shirgazi-khan Madrassah Shirgazi-khan Madrassah is one of the oldest madrassahs in Khiva constructed by Khurasan’s slaves in 1718 after a successful military campaign of Shirgazi-khan to Khurasan. Shergazi-khan promised to free the slaves after the completion of the madrassah but he did everything he could to delay the completion. Infuriated slaves killed Shirgazi-khan in 1720 before the madrassah was completed. Upon completion in the 18th century, the madrassah was used as a home for the blind which is one of the reasons the external walls do not have windows. Mathtumkuli, a famous poet in 18th century studied in Shirgazi-Khan Madrassah. One of his poetic lines is “the golden book was opened for me here. Forgive me, I am leaving, dear Shirgazi”. Location: Khorezm Province, Khiva Coordinates: 41° 22’ 34” N, 60° 21’ 32” E Location: Nearby Juma Mosque / South of Islam-Khodja Minaret Coordinates: 41° 22’ 36” N, 60° 21’ 34” E Bagbanly Mosque According to the inscription carved on the aivan wall at the east entrance, the mosque was constructed in 1809 (Hijra 1224) by master Pakhvalan-Kuli who designed the building. Entrance door features the name of the woodcarver Ruz Muhammad, the son of Adin Muhammad. Bagbanly Mosque is a small quarter mosque erected in the 19th century with the money donated by two horticulturist brothers. Bagbanly shares similar artistic value with Juma Mosque dating back to the 14th centuries with its ornamental designs alternating with Arabic carved inscription on each column in the mosque.
HISTORIC SITES Tura Murad-Tura Minaret Tura Murad-Tura Minaret is located opposite the northwestern corner of Muhammad Rahim-khan Madrassah. It was built next to a Makhallya’s mosque bearing the same name by Tura Murad-Tura, brother of Muhammad Rahimkhan II. The minaret is made of burnt bricks and decorated with “bows” and majolica belt in its upper part. The minaret is 9m in height and has a foundation diameter of 3.2m. Location: Kalta Minor Minaret End of the road of Itchan-Kala, Khiva Kalta Minor that means “short minaret” resembles the huge glazed barrel. Kalta- Minor should have become the biggest and highest minaret in Central Asia. Its massive base is 14.2 m in diameter. According to historians, construction was abandoned after the death of Muhammad Amin-khan in 1855 in a battle with the Turkmen. Legend says Bukhara Khan found out about the construction of the grandiose minaret in Khiva and with the same architect, constructed a taller minaret in Bukhara. Khiva Khan was very angry when he knew about the incident and ordered the architect to be thrown down from the minaret. The structure rose to only 26m. Location: North of Kunya Ark Coordinates: 41° 22’ 41” N, 60° 21’ 28” E Islam-Khodja Minaret and Madrassah Islam-Khodja was the first vizier of the Khiva khanate of Muhammad Rahim-khan II in 1863 to 1910 and his son Esfendiyar-khan from 1910 to 1920. He financed the construction of a ginnery, a hospital, a pharmacy, post and telegraph offices and secular schools in Khiva. In 1908, vizier Islam-Khodja built this ensemble in the southeastern part of Itchan-Kala which consists of the smallest madrassah in Khiva and the highest minaret, imitating the ancient minarets in the 11th and 12th centuries. The height of the minaret is 45m making it the highest observation point in Khiva. Masters Bolta Vaisov and Madaminov from the Kishlak Madyr decorated it with glazed tiles comprising of pictures drawn by master Ish-Muhammad Khudayberdiyev. Location: Next to Juma Mosque Coordinates: 41° 22’ 35” N, 60° 21’ 36” E
UZBEKISTA Khiva HISTORIC SITES Location: Center of Itchan-Kala Coordinates: 41° 22’ 41” N, 60° 21’ 35” E Madrassah of Arab-khan and Muhammad-Amin-inak The two historical madrassahs are located in the center of Itchan-Kala. The Arab- khan Madrassah is connected to Arab-Muhammad-khan ruler of Khiva from 1602 to 1623 from the Genghisid (Genghis Khan’s lineage) and the second relates to Muhammad-Amin-inak (1763/70-1790), founder of the Manghit dynasty. The madrassah of Arab-khan was built in 1616 to commemorate the transfer of the Khorezm capital from Kunya Urgench to Khiva. It was reconstructed in 1838, by Allakuli-khan during his ruling. The Madrassah of Muhammad-Amin-inak dates back to the second half of the 18th century. It contains a burial site inside the pylon; legends say that it might be the tomb of Muhammad-Amin-inak, or his little son. Monument to Al-Khorezmiy Abu Jofar Mohammed ben Musa Al-Khorezmiy was a famous scientist in the Muslim world. He wrote more than 20 research works. The most famous book was the ‘Concise Book of Calculus Algebra and Almukabula’ which was translated into Latin in the 12th century. He also wrote “A Book of Indian Calculus”, “Zij”, “The Book of Survey” “The Orient” and “Book of History”. In his astronomical treatise “Zij”, Al- Location: South of Kalta Minaret Khorezmiy took the meridian of Coordinates: 41° 22’ 41” N, 60° 21’ 24” E the Arina cupola as the initial meridian from which counting time was carried out. The cupola was identified with the Indian town of Uzain (today it is Ujain in the state of Uttar Pradesh – India). The theoretical fundamentals of Arina were reflected in “The Notion of the Earth” by Peter Aya (written 1410, printed 1480). From marginal notes of a copy of that book, one can see that he believed there to be another, even higher cupola than the one in India, on the exact opposite side of the Earth from the Arina cupola. The search for the second cupola led Christopher Columbus to the discovery of the New World. Many of his research works are well preserved until today. His ideas in systematic scientific had contributed to the development of science in Europe.
SHOPPING 1 1. Scarves 2 2. Ceramic 3. Wood Carving 4. Porcelain 5. Uzbek Tubeteika KHIVAbeing a main point 3 along the Silk Road 4 in the early 7th century, has had many cultures shared and exchanged here. Throughout the process, its craft flourished. Silk, coarse calico, plain zendens and carpets are now staple craft items in Khiva. Their mastery of gold and wood craftsmanship should also be appreciated as it can be purchased in most souvenir shops in the area. Khiva Silk Carpet Workshop 5 Address: Itchan-Kala, Khiva, Khiva Suzane Centre Khorezm Address: Itchan-Kala, Khiva Contact: (+99862) 375 7264 Coordinates: 41° 22’ 35” N, 60° 21’ 29” E (+99862) 375 6883 Unesco Carpet Weaving Shop Coordinates: 41° 22’ 37” N, 60° 21’ 32” E Address: 57, Eshoni Pyr Street, Khiva Operation Hours : 9am – 6pm Contact: (+99862) 233 6613 Website: www.khiva.info Operation Hours : 9am – 5pm (Mon – Sat) Craft Stall, Itchan-Kala Coordinates: 41° 22’ 34” N, 60° 21’ 32” E
UZBEKISTA Khiva EATING OUT Bir Gumbaz Tea House Address: Pakhlavan Makhmud Street, Khiva Contact: (+99862) 375 3026 Operation Hours: 11am – 10pm Zarafshan Restaurant Address: 44, Pakhlavan Makhmud Street, Khiva Contact: (+99862) 518 1090 Operation Hours : 12pm – 10pm Amin Khan Madrassah Rustamboy Tea House Address: Amin Khan Madrassah Address: A. Koriy, Dichan-Kala, Khiva Coordinates: 41° 22’ 41” N, 60° 21’ 21” E (Inside Madrassah) Milliy Taomlar Coordinates: Address: Itchan-Kala, Khiva 41°22’41,78’’N; 60°21’27,04’’E Contact: (+99862) 227 3757 Isakjan-Umidabonu (Isak Hodja) Coordinates: 41°22’41, 68’’N; 60°21’30,25’’E Address: 70A, Rakhmanov Street, Operation Hours: 11am – 6pm Isakjan-Umidabonu (Isak Hodja) Khorezm District, Khiva Address: 70A, Rakhmanov Street, Tim Abdulla Khan Address: Near Taqitelpag Bazaar Khorezm District,Khiva Operation Hours: 9am – 6pm Art Restaurant Madrassah of Allakulikhan Parvoz Chaikhana Address: Itchan-Kala, Address: 5, Mustaqillik, Dichan-Kala, Madrassah of Allakuli-Khan, Khiva Khiva Contact: (+99862) 375 9270 National House Zaynab Operation Hours: 10am – 8pm Address: 1, Pahlavan Mahmud Street, Khiva Contact: (+99862) 375 2753 Operation Hours : 10am – 8pm
ACCOMMODATION Shaherezada Khiva Address: 35, Islam Hoja Street, Khiva Contact: (+99862) 375 9596 Website: www.khivashaherezada.com Asia Khiva Hotel Address: K. Yaqubova Street, Khiva Contact: (+998541) 963 4512 Email: [email protected] Website: www.asiahotels.uz Malika Kheivak Hotel Address: 10, Islam Hoja Street, Khiva Contact: (+99862) 375 2665 Website: www.malika-khiva.com Malika Khiva Hotel Orient Star Hotel Address: 19A, P. Kori Street, Address: 1, Pakhlavan Makhmud Street, Khiva Khiva Contact: (+99862) 375 2665 Contact: (+98862) 375 4945 Website: www.malika-khiva.com Malika Khorezm Hotel Address: 5, Center, Khiva Contact: (+998362) 375 5451 Website: www.malika-khiva.com Khorezm Palace Hotel Address: 2, Al-Berundy Street, 220100 Khiva Contact: (+99862) 224 9999 Email: [email protected] Website: www.khorezmpalace.uz
Khiva ACCOMMODATION UZBEKISTA Sobir Arkanchi Hotel Address: 1, Yangi Turmush Street, Khiva Contact: (+99862) 375 8766 Shaxrizoda Hotel Address: 35, Islam Khodja Street, Khiva Islambek Hotel Address: 60, Tashpulatov Street, Khiva Contact: (+99862) 375 3023 Email: [email protected] Website: www.islambekhotel.uz Arkanchi Hotel Mirzoboshi Address: 10, P. Makhmud Street, Khiva Address: 1, Pakhlavan Makhmud Contact: (+99862) 375 2974 Meros Guest House Street, Khiva Address: 57, A.Boltaeva Street, Contact: (+99862) 375 2753 Email: [email protected] Itchan-Kala Contact: (+99862) 375 7642 Email: [email protected] Website: www.meroskhiva.com Hayat Inn Hotel Address: 71, K. Yakubova Street, Khiva Contact: (+98862) 375 7572 Website: www.hotelhayatinn.uz
The History The picturesque Ferghana Valley is located in the eastern part of Uzbekistan. It is the most densely populated region of Uzbekistan, with almost a third of the country’s population. The diamond- shaped valley is 300 km from east to west and 170 km from north to south. The mild climate of the Ferghana Valley allows a growing season of 240 days per year. Thanks to that, the primary emphasis on the production of cotton, silk and other agricultural crops has turned a large part of the valley into an oasis. With the primary crop being cotton in close to 25,000 sq. km of fertile land, there is scarcely a hectare of uncultivated land. In ancient times, the exceptional flora of the region gave the Ferghana Valley the name “Golden Valley”. FERGHANA VALLEY The Ferghana Valley is rich in a number of natural resources including gold, oil, copper and other raw materials. The Syr Darya River, one of the greatest rivers of Central Asia, runs across the valley and is fed by more than 70 mountain streams. Birds including seagulls and pheasants are aplenty on the shores of the Syr Darya. The first ancient settlements in the Ferghana Valley appeared more than 5,000 years ago and for a long time Kokand was the main city of Ferghana valley. The first written evidence about the town of Khavikand can be found in the 10th century chronicles where it was mentioned as a town located on the Great Silk Road and famous for its crafts. Kokand was also a big religious center with 35 madrassahs and 100 mosques during its years of prosperity. Unfortunately, the majority of them were ruined in the course of time. Besides that, Andijan is also one of the most ancient cities of Ferghana Valley.
UZBEKISTAFERGHANA Valley HISTORIC SITES The History Khudoyar-Khan Palace (Kokand Urda) Location: 2, Istiqlol Street, Ferghana Valley The Khudoyar-Khan Palace, built in 1871, Coordinates: 40° 32’19”N, 70° 66’17”E was the ruler’s seventh mansion and Website: www.museum.dinosoft.uz was intended to surpass all the previous Contact : (+98873) 553 6046 constructions in terms of its dimensions Operation Hours: 9am – 5pm and splendour of decoration. On the portal, between two guldasta-towers above the huge fretted entrance gates, there is an Arabic inscription made of majolica tiles which states “Seyid Mukhammad Khudoyar-Khan – the great ruler”. Featuring 119 rooms decorated with lace-like carving back then, the most ornate premises were the throne room and waiting room. Over the years, the interior layout of the Khan’s palace underwent considerable changes. Only two courtyards and 19 rooms which today accommodate the City Local Lore Museum have survived to the present day. The collection of the museum features many exhibits which tell the visitors about Kokand’s historical past. On the other hand, the palace itself with its amazing ornaments and graceful colour combinations serve as a testimony of the unfading glory of Ferghana Valley ceramists.
HISTORIC SITES Narbuta-bey Madrassah According to eyewitness accounts in the 19th century, there were once up to 40 madrassahs in Kokand. Unfortunately, only a few survived to the present day with the city’s largest being the Narbuta-bey Madrassah, built under Khan Narbuta in 1796 and completed in 1799. Kokand- khan defeated the ruler of Bukhara and took many captives including craftsmen from Bukhara such as architect Mukhammad Salikh Usto Kasim. The craftsmen were then forced to take part in the construction of the madrassah. The most remarkable thing about the Narbuta-bey Madrassah is that it has practically no décor which gives the construction an unforgettable impression of austerity of its architecture. Presently, the Narbuta-bey Madrassah again functions as a religious institution where students from all over the Ferghana Valley study Koran, hadiaths and the Arabic language. Dakhma-i-Shakhan Royal Cemetery Upon Umar-khan’s death in 1822, his wife Nadira devoted her life to poetry and piety. Several Kokand mosques, madrassahs and caravanserais built were connected to her name. One of which is the Dakhma-i-Shakhan burial complex where Umarkhan was interred. It was a composite architectural ensemble which was typical for memorial complexes of the Ferghana Valley and was called khazira. Behind a beautiful fence, there are tombs and a small terraced mosque (ziaratkhona) where commemorating prayers were to be offered up. A double-leaf door of the mosque bears the magnificent fretwork is Usto Mukhammad Isa from Marghilan whereas the plafond and the walls of the mosque are painted and filled with ganch fretwork by well-known craftsman Usto Mukhammad Kuzi. The gravestones of Umarkhan, his brothers, sons and grandsons are richly decorated with carving, intricate ornaments and quotations from Koran made in Arabic characters.
UZBEKISTAFERGHANA Valley HISTORIC SITES Juma Mosque In the capital of the Kokand khanate, there were 230 neighbourhood mosques and 18 Friday mosques. The construction of Jami Mosque, the biggest in the city, was completed in 1818 but its erection was initiated long before – in the 18th century when the ruler of Kokand, Alim-khan commissioned to construct the Jami complex – a madrassah to accommodate 100 khudjras and a magnificent mosque. In 1852, under Khudoyar-khan, a 22 meter high minaret made of baked bricks with winding stairs in the minaret was constructed next to the mosque. The minaret’s form resembles a truncated cone with a hexahedral lantern on the top. Five times a day, azanchi (muezzin) would climb these steps to the top of the minaret to call upon the faithful for praying. The deteriorating bases of wooden columns were replaced and the unique paintings of aivan and interior were restored to their initial appearance. Today, the mosque is given back to the religious people and every Friday the citizens come here to pray, just as in the olden days. Location:5, Khamza Street, Ferghana Valley Operation Hours: 9am – 5pm Coordinates: 40° 32’ 38” N, 70° 57’ 15” E
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