Blacksmithing in bukhara

 Two Days at the Ark of Bukhara Day 1 – Stepping into History Today, we began our two-day journey through one of the most iconic landmarks of Uzbekistan — the Ark of Bukhara. This ancient fortress, standing proudly above the city, once served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and center of power for Bukhara's emirs. As we approached its massive walls and the grand gateway, we were immediately struck by its imposing structure and historical presence. Entering the Ark felt like stepping into another world. The thick mudbrick walls whispered stories of kings, scholars, and warriors. Inside, we explored the inner courtyard, royal rooms, administrative buildings, and even a small mosque used by the emirs themselves. Each section revealed a new piece of Bukhara’s rich history, from politics and warfare to religion and culture. We were especially fascinated by the museum exhibits inside the Ark, which displayed ancient weapons, royal clothing, manuscripts, and artifacts from the ...

 Today, I stepped into a world where time stands still—and where beauty is measured not only in gold, but in memory. We visited Toqi Zargaron, the ancient Dome of the Jewelers, one of Bukhara’s most elegant and historic trading domes. Even before entering, I felt something magical in the air. The name itself—Zargaron—whispers of gold, silver, and the quiet artistry of hands that shape dreams into ornaments. As we walked beneath the high arches of the dome, I was instantly captivated. The light filtered through the small windows above, dancing across old stone and glass counters filled with shimmering pieces. It was like the sunlight itself was admiring the jewelry. Every corner glowed with the legacy of craftsmanship. Necklaces made with intricate patterns, rings that looked like they carried stories, and earrings delicate enough to belong in a fairytale. But more than the sparkle, it was the spirit behind the jewelry that moved me. These were not factory-made items. Each piece hel...

 Today we stepped into a world where tradition still lives and history wears a hat—Toqi Telpakfurushon, the ancient dome of the hat sellers in the heart of Bukhara. As we approached the entrance, I felt like we were entering a living museum. The tall, curved dome stood proudly, its ancient bricks glowing softly in the afternoon sun. This wasn’t just a building—it was a storyteller. One that didn’t speak with words, but with textures, fabrics, and the scent of old earth and wool. Inside, the air was cool and filled with color. Traditional Uzbek hats—doppi, turban-style headdresses, fur-trimmed caps—were displayed on every side, each one a small crown carrying centuries of meaning. Some were simple and elegant. Others were bold, vibrant, full of embroidery that looked like dancing stars stitched by hand. I reached out and ran my fingers over one—it was soft, but it felt powerful, like it carried someone’s pride and history. The sellers weren’t just vendors—they were guardians of trad...

 Today felt like walking into the soul of ancient Bukhara. We visited Toqi Sarrafon, the historic trading dome once known as the heart of the Silk Road’s financial world. The moment I stepped inside, I was struck by the atmosphere—it was quiet, almost sacred, yet filled with invisible echoes of voices from long ago. I closed my eyes for a second and imagined coins clinking, traders bargaining, currencies being exchanged, and merchants from India, Persia, and China speaking a dozen languages under one majestic dome. The architecture was incredible. The dome itself, with its perfect curves and brick patterns, let in gentle rays of sunlight that danced across the old stone floors. It felt as if the building was alive—breathing through its arches, whispering stories through its cracks. I felt humbled standing there, knowing that five centuries ago, this place was the Wall Street of the East. It wasn’t just about money—it was about trust, trade, relationships, and movement. Bukhara wasn...

 Today we had the opportunity to visit one of Bukhara’s oldest and most spiritually rich places – Maqoki Attoriy. As we approached the site, the first thing that caught our attention was the ancient architecture. The structure, partly below ground level, truly lives up to its name, which means "the cellar of the perfumer." The intricate brickwork and beautiful patterns on the facade reflected the artistic mastery of the early Islamic period. We entered the complex with a sense of awe. Inside, the atmosphere was peaceful and full of reverence. Soft lighting and the cool underground air added to the calm and spiritual feel of the place. We observed the historical artifacts and inscriptions, and we were deeply moved by how well they have been preserved over the centuries. Our guide shared that Maqoki Attoriy once stood on the site of an ancient Zoroastrian temple and later became a mosque. This place carries layers of religious and cultural history, representing both pre-Islamic...

Hello everyone, Today was one of the most unforgettable days of our journey—we visited the iconic Lyab-i Hauz ensemble in the old city of Bukhara. The name means “By the Pond,” and it couldn’t be more fitting. The centerpiece is a large, tranquil pool surrounded by centuries-old architecture and giant mulberry trees. The atmosphere was both peaceful and vibrant, filled with the spirit of ancient times and the energy of today. As we walked toward the square, the first thing that caught my eye was the Kukeldash Madrasa, the largest madrasa in Bukhara. Built in the 16th century, its massive size and beautifully decorated facade with turquoise and white tiles were simply breathtaking. Standing in front of it made me feel small—in a good way. You could almost hear the whispers of students who once studied here hundreds of years ago Next, we explored the Nadir Divan-Begi Khanqah and the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasa. Originally meant to be a caravanserai, the madrasa was later converted into a sc...

Hey everyone! Today, I'm taking you on a journey through time as we explore the Blacksmiths Museum in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Nestled in the heart of this ancient city, this museum offers a unique glimpse into the age-old craft of blacksmithing. Located within the historic Kulyuta Caravanserai, built in the 16th century, the Blacksmiths Museum stands as the only museum of its kind in Uzbekistan. Established in 1992, it serves both as a museum and a functioning workshop, preserving the rich heritage of Bukharan metalwork .As I stepped inside, the rhythmic clang of hammer on anvil greeted me, instantly transporting me back centuries. The museum showcases an impressive collection of tools, weapons, and household items crafted by skilled blacksmiths over the years. Notably, exhibits include 17th-century chainmail and a warrior's outfit, offering a tangible connection to the past . One of the highlights of my visit was meeting Usto Shokir Kamolov, a sixth-generation blacksmith whose fa...