Zardoʻzlik ✨

Zardoʻzlik is the art of decorating clothes and fabrics with patterns, designs, and images using gold, silver threads, or other precious metal threads. This craft has developed in Uzbekistan over centuries and is widely used to adorn national clothing, ceremonial garments, wedding dresses, tablecloths, and religious fabrics.

Key aspects of Zardoʻzlik:

1. Materials – gold and silver threads, silk threads, sometimes precious stones.

2. Techniques – stitching threads onto fabric, drawing patterns, and decorating with gold or silver.

3. Products – traditional garments (chapans, atlases, adras), bridal dresses, prayer rugs, tablecloths, wedding attire.

4. Outcome – the clothing and fabrics are not only beautiful but also carry cultural and aesthetic value.

In Uzbekistan, the art of zardoʻzlik is especially developed in the cities of Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent. The artisans of these cities are renowned for their delicate patterns and traditional styles.

March 13, 2026

Engraving / Chasing

Kandakorlik is the art of creating patterns, images, or decorations on metal objects. This craft is mainly used in coppersmithing and in decorating copper and silver items. In kandakorlik, special tools are used on the surface of the object for techniques such as drawing, stamping, and carving.

Key aspects of Kandakorlik:

• Materials – copper, bronze, silver, and sometimes gold.

• Tools – special hammers, chisels, and engraving instruments.

• Techniques – pattern engraving, creating reliefs, and etching.

• Outcome – the objects are valued not only for their functionality but also as decorative art.

In Uzbekistan, kandakorlik has developed since ancient times and is especially famous in the cities of Bukhara, Samarkand, and Kokand. The delicate patterns on copper, silver, and bronze items showcase the rich handicraft traditions of these cities to the world.

March 13, 2026

Coppersmithing

Coppersmithing is the craft of making various household utensils and items from copper. Coppersmiths produce trays, teapots, bowls, jugs, cauldrons, and other objects. Delicate patterns are engraved on the finished items using special tools. This process is called chasing or engraving. Copper products are valued for their durability and long service life. In Uzbekistan, the cities of Bukhara and Kokand are especially famous for their coppersmithing crafts.

March 13, 2026

Jewelry 💍

Jewelry making is the art of creating various decorative items from gold, silver, and precious stones. This craft has been highly developed in Uzbekistan since ancient times, and masters have created famous ornaments with delicate patterns and national styles. Jewelers make rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, amulets, and other decorative items. These items are often decorated with precious stones. Jewelry is used not only as decoration but also during ceremonies and as an important part of traditional clothing. For example, Bukhara and Khiva have long been famous for their jewelry craftsmanship.

March 12, 2026

Wood Carving

Wood carving is a craft of making various objects by cutting, carving, and decorating wood. People who work in this profession create doors, pillars, chests, furniture, and decorative items from wood. Craftsmen use special tools to carve complex patterns onto the surface of the wood. Wood carving is often used to decorate historical buildings, mosques, and the interiors of houses. This craft requires great patience, attention, and artistic taste. 🌳🪵

March 11, 2026

Pottery

Pottery products are made in pottery. The more the clay is kneaded and prepared, the better the quality of the ceramic. The main tool in pottery is the potter’s wheel; the master craftsman makes vessels on it and gives them shape. The finished vessels are dried and then heated in a kiln. Depending on the types of vessels, kilns can also vary in size (large or small). Vessels that are glazed are fired once again in the kiln after glazing. Usually, potters specialize in producing certain types of items (for example, bowl makers, jar makers, tile makers, tandoor makers, and others).

March 10, 2026

Mausoleum of Pahlavon Mahmud

The Mausoleum of Pahlavon Mahmud was primarily built in the 14th century in the form of a small crypt and houses the remains of the great “Pir” of its time, Pahlavon Mahmud (1247–1326). Over time, it was revered and renovated by many rulers. Historical sources note that Amir Timur installed a door for the mausoleum. Inside the mausoleum lie the graves of Abulghozikhan, Anushakhon, and Arangkhon, indicating that the poet’s tomb was honored during their reigns.

In 1701–1702, the Khan of Khiva, Shaniyoz Khan, rebuilt the mausoleum, and the entrance door from that period has been preserved. Inscriptions on the door include Quranic verses, Hadith, and poetic texts, decorated with turquoise, mother-of-pearl, and other Islamic floral motifs.

The current mausoleum was begun by Muhammad Rahim Khan I (1806–1825) after a successful campaign to Qo‘ng‘irot in 1810 and was completed during the reign of his son, Ollakulikhan. The mausoleum consists of three parts: the tomb chamber, khanaqah, and corridor.

Address: Khiva city, “Ichan-Qal’a” neighborhood, Pahlavon Mahmud Street

March 02, 2026

Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasa and Minaret

In the city of Khiva, there are 64 madrasas, among which the largest and most beautiful was built by the Khan of Khiva, Muhammad Amin Khan. The madrasa is located in the western part of Ichan-Qala, on the right side when entering through the main gate, Ota Darvoza. This architectural monument was constructed in a style characteristic of its era, making it the largest and most luxurious of its kind.

The madrasa is built of baked bricks, with walls up to 1.5 meters thick. It is a two-story building with 130 cells, and historical records indicate that at one time, it accommodated 260 students. Architecturally, the madrasa is similar to other buildings of its type: symmetrical, two-story, rectangular in layout, and featuring a courtyard. Traditional flower-bundle minarets are located on either side of the main portal.

The main complex includes a five-domed central hall (miyonsaroy), a mosque, classrooms, and additional rooms. There are small portals on both sides of the courtyard. The first-floor cells served as dormitories and auxiliary rooms, while the second-floor corridor (ravoli peshayvon) added elegance to the building. Inside the courtyard, there are four small portals adorned with “suls” calligraphy tiles and decorative ornaments.

Address: Khiva city, MFY “Ichan-Qala”, Polvon Qori Street

March 02, 2026

Sherg‘ozixon Madrasah

Since ancient times, the Khwarezm scholars devoted to knowledge and science aimed to establish another academy in the center of Khiva at the beginning of the 18th century. Built in 1720 by the ruler of Khiva, Sherg‘oziy Muhammad Bahodirxon, this madrasa was named “Maskani Fozilon” – the House of Scholars.

“Maskani Fozilon” educated students from Central Asia and neighboring regions. Renowned scholars of the era worked here. Historical sources indicate that by the late 19th century, teachers such as Muhammad Ya’qub Oxund Eshon, Husain Oxund Eshon, Muhammad Raf’i Oxund Eshon, and Ortuq Oxund Eshon taught future scientific leaders. Librarians, barbers, cleaners, and water carriers served the students.

Address: Khiva city, MFY “Ichan-Qala”, Pahlavon Mahmud Street

March 02, 2026

Muhammad Rahimkhan Madrasah

The Muhammad Rahimkhan II Madrasah, one of the largest madrasahs in Khiva, was built facing the gate of the Kuhna Ark, the khans’ residence. The madrasah, located opposite the Kuhna Ark gate, was constructed by decree of Sayyid Muhammad Rahimkhan II; its construction began in 1871 and it was completed and opened in late 1876.

The madrasah stands out among others for its spaciousness and grandeur. Built in the traditional style, this rectangular complex with corner towers reflects architectural improvements, as the students’ living quarters were enhanced with additional sections. The madrasah includes summer and winter mosques, a classroom, a library, and 76 hujras (student cells) used as dormitories.

Address: Abdulla Boltaev Street, Ichan-Qal’a neighborhood, Khiva city.

March 02, 2026

Kuhna Ark Palace

Kuhna Ark Palace

Kuhna Ark Palace is the ancient citadel of Khiva and one of the khan’s residences located within Ichan-Qala. The history of the fortress is closely connected with the history of the city of Khiva itself. Some historical sources indicate that the construction of the fortress and the city began at the same time. However, today only several buildings dating back to the 19th century have been preserved within the Ark territory.

The Ark once housed the residences of the khan and officials, as well as state institutions. It also included a reception hall (Salomkhona, Arzkhona), a mint, summer and winter mosques, a harem, an arsenal, a gunpowder workshop, storehouses, a kitchen, stables, a prison, and even a special arena for ram fighting.

The term “Kuhna Ark” (Old Fortress) began to be used after another palace, Tosh-Hovli, was built in the city between 1832 and 1838. In its structure and layout, the Ark resembles a city within a city. One side is bordered by the walls of Ichan-Qala, while the other sides are enclosed by special defensive walls. The Ark can be accessed only through one entrance — the eastern gate.

Its territory covers more than one hectare and has a rectangular shape (123 × 93 meters), surrounded by high, thick defensive walls. Kuhna Ark consists of four courtyards of different sizes.

In the western part of Kuhna Ark stands the Aq Shaykh Bobo pavilion, which, according to legend, was associated with Sheikh Mukhtar Vali, who lived in the 14th century. It is said that an elderly man dressed in white once lived there, which is why the hill became known as Aq Shaykh Bobo. In fact, this hill served as an observation point of the khan’s palace, offering a clear view of the surrounding city.

Address: Khiva city, “Ichan-Qala” neighborhood, A. Boltayev Street.

February 27, 2026

Naqshbandi Order Museum

The Naqshbandi Order Museum is an important cultural and spiritual site connected with the life of the famous saint and Sufi master Bahouddin Naqshband and the history of the Naqshbandi order.

The museum is located at the sacred pilgrimage site associated with Bahouddin Naqshband, within the ancient mausoleum complex near Bukhara. He was the founder of the Naqshbandi order and is highly revered throughout the Islamic world.

The museum presents information about his life, teachings, the principles of the order, the spiritual chain of disciples (silsila), and other prominent Naqshbandi sheikhs. Manuscripts, old prayer beads, religious literature, and various exhibits related to the order are displayed there.

The complex includes a mausoleum, pilgrimage site, mosque, courtyard with an ayvan, and an ancient sardoba (water reservoir). This place is significant not only as a historical monument but also as a sacred pilgrimage destination.

Address: Bukhara city, Qasri Orifon village.

February 27, 2026

Magoki Attor Mosque

Magoki Attor Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Bukhara and a unique architectural monument that preserves traces of the pre-Islamic period. The mosque was originally built in the 8th century, during the early arrival of Islam in Bukhara. Its present appearance dates from reconstructions carried out between the 12th and 16th centuries.

The word “Magoki” means “located in a pit” or “situated in a low place,” as the mosque stands significantly below the current ground level. Although tile decoration is less prominent, the brickwork technique, stucco ornaments, and portal decorations represent outstanding craftsmanship.

Magoki Attor Mosque is a rare and sacred monument reflecting the deepest historical roots of Bukhara. Currently, within the framework of the Biennale – the International Contemporary Art Festival – the exhibition titled “From the History of Bukhara” is being displayed here.

📍 Address: Mehtar Anbar Street, Bukhara.

February 27, 2026

Museum of Fine Arts

The building was constructed in 1912 from baked brick. The museum’s exhibitions feature artworks by well-known painters and sculptors. Works by famous artists such as Kurzin, Benkov, Kashina, Tansiqboyev, and Yenikeyev are displayed here. Currently, within the framework of the Biennale – the international contemporary art festival – the exhibition titled “Healing for Wounded Hearts” is being presented.

📍 Address: B. Naqshband Shoh Street, Bukhara.

February 27, 2026

Abdulazizkhon Madrasa (Bukhara, 17th century) (Museum of the History of Wood Carving Art in Bukhara)

The Abdulazizkhon Madrasa was built by Abdulazizkhon of the Ashtarkhanid dynasty and stands out for its rich ornamentation and exquisite artistic style. The madrasa’s portal, iwans, and rooms feature colorful stucco carvings, tile patterns, and gilded decorations. In particular, the ceiling and wooden columns display high-level craftsmanship. Today, the building houses the "Museum of the History of Wood Carving Art in Bukhara," exhibiting ancient columns, doors, chests, wooden footwear, and other wooden art pieces.

📍 Address: Nurobod Street, Bukhara.

February 26, 2026