About this experience
Join me for a leisurely stroll along a picturesque route: from Lyab-i Hauz complex to Po-i-Kalon square. Along the way, you will see mosques, madrasas, caravanserais, and ancient trading rows. Wander through the colorful Jewish quarter and enjoy a delightful puppet show at the puppet theater. I will share the rich local history, traditions, legends, and everyday life in a accessible way.
What to Expect
Lyab-i Hauz, Jewish Quarter, and Puppet Workshop
We will start at the most atmospheric part of the Old Town - Lyab-i Hauz square. You will see a lovely pond and a monument to the famous Eastern jester Nasreddin Hodja. I will tell you amusing stories and jokes about him. Then, we will explore the ancient winding streets, visit the Jewish quarter, and learn about the famous Bukharan Jews. At the puppet workshop, you will enjoy a small theatrical performance that is sure to make you smile.
Caravanserai, Hammam, Madrasa, and Mosque
We will visit a 19th-century caravanserai to see local craftsmen at work. Walk through covered trading rows and discuss the goods sold in each. In the functioning ancient hammam, you will learn about traditional Eastern spa procedures. Additionally, you will see the ancient 12th-century Magoki Attori Mosque, where I will share insights into Islamic ornaments. Explore the magnificent Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan madrasas, and discover what they taught, what subjects were on the curriculum, and how the clergy influenced the education system.
Grand Po-i-Kalon Complex
The tour concludes at the majestic architectural complex of Po-i-Kalon, featuring four monuments: the Kalyan Minaret, Miri-Arab Madrasa, Cathedral Mosque, and Alimkhan Madrasa. Learn about the significant historical events that took place here in different eras and why the great conqueror Genghis Khan failed to destroy the Bukharan minaret.
Organizational Details
We will view all monuments from the outside, except for two - the Cathedral Mosque and Abdulazizkhan Madrasa. Entrance tickets to them are paid separately - $3 per person.
