The ancient city of Bukhara, located in Uzbekistan, has been a cultural and trading center for centuries. The city is home to the Ark of Bukhara, a fortress and palace complex that is considered one of the most important historical monuments in Central Asia. The Ark of Bukhara is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the city’s rich history and culture. Here are 10 things to do at the Ark of Bukhara.
1. Explore the Citadel: The Citadel is the oldest and most impressive part of the Ark of Bukhara. The walls, which date back to the 5th century, have been restored and are now open to the public. Visitors can explore the Citadel’s many towers, courtyards, and other structures, as well as marvel at the stunning views of the city from the walls.
2. Visit the Summer Palace: The Summer Palace is located inside the Citadel and is one of the most important structures in the Ark of Bukhara. Built in the 16th century, the palace is a stunning example of Islamic architecture and has been beautifully restored. Visitors can explore the palace’s many rooms and admire the intricate tilework, mosaics, and wood carvings.
3. See the Famous Gates: The Ark of Bukhara is guarded by four large gates, each of which has its own distinctive design. The most famous of these is the Po-i-Kalyan, or “Foot of the Great” gate, which is decorated with intricate carvings of lions and other animals.
4. Visit the Chor-Minor: The Chor-Minor is a four-story tower located in the Ark of Bukhara. The tower is believed to have been built in the 19th century and is one of the most photographed landmarks in the city. Visitors can climb the tower and admire the views of the city from the top.
5. Explore the Madrasah: The Ark of Bukhara is home to several madrasahs, or Islamic schools. The most famous of these is the Mir-i Arab Madrasah, which was built in the 16th century and is still used as a school today. Visitors can explore the madrasah’s many rooms and admire the intricate tilework and stonework.
6. Visit the Museums: The Ark of Bukhara is home to several museums, including the Museum of Applied Arts, the Museum of History and Culture, and the Museum of Ethnography. These museums are a great way to learn more about the city’s history and culture and explore the many artifacts and objects on display.
7. Take a Tour: There are several guided tours of the Ark of Bukhara available, which are a great way to learn more about the city’s history and culture. Tours typically include visits to the Citadel, the Summer Palace, and the other monuments in the complex.
8. Shop at the Bazaar: The Ark of Bukhara is home to a large bazaar, where visitors can find a variety of local goods, including traditional Uzbek carpets, handmade jewelry, and other souvenirs. The bazaar is a great place to pick up unique gifts and souvenirs.
9. Enjoy the Food: The Ark of Bukhara is home to several restaurants, cafés, and teahouses, where visitors can sample traditional Uzbek cuisine. Dishes to try include plov (rice pilaf), samsa (stuffed pastries), and shurpa (soup).
10. Attend a Performance: The Ark of Bukhara is home to several performance venues, including the Theatre of Music and Dance, the Puppet Theatre, and the Theatre of Opera and Ballet. Visitors can enjoy traditional Uzbek performances, including music, dance, and puppetry.
Visiting the Ark of Bukhara is a great way to explore the city’s rich history and culture. From exploring the Citadel to sampling the local cuisine, there are plenty of things to do and see in this ancient city.