A Magical Day at Lyab-i Hauz, Bukhara

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 school. What fascinated me the most were the unusual tile decorations—two mythical birds (possibly simurghs) on the portal, which is very rare in Islamic art. It reminded me how Bukhara was not just a center of religion, but also of culture, trade, and creativity.

In the middle of the square, near the pond, there was a bronze statue of Nasreddin Hodja, the famous wise fool of Central Asian folklore, riding his donkey backwards with a playful smile. Everyone wanted to take a picture with him. He brought joy and laughter to the square, just like his stories have done for centuries.

We had lunch at a cozy open-air chaikhana (teahouse) next to the pond. The food was delicious—plov, shashlik, and warm non bread. The green tea was refreshing and the view of the still water, with its reflections of the madrasas and trees, was magical. Birds chirped overhead, and we could hear the soft buzz of conversations in Uzbek, Russian, and even some English.

Locals sat around playing chess or simply chatting. Children ran past us, chasing pigeons and giggling. It felt like we were not tourists, but part of a living tradition. Time moved slowly here, as if the past and present were blending together in harmony.

Lyab-i Hauz isn’t just a monument—it’s a living heart of Bukhara. It’s a place where history breathes, where stories live on, and where every corner invites you to pause and feel. I didn’t want to leave.

I’ll always remember the calm water, the brilliant tiles, the scent of fresh tea, and the feeling that in this square, the soul of Bukhara still shines brightly.