Bukhara was one of the great trading centres on the Silk Road, an independent Emirate and scene of Anglo Russian rivalry in the "Great Game" of the 19th century.
Surrounded by the vast expanses of the Kyzyl Kum desert, Bukhara still retains the atmosphere of an ancient Silk Road city.
Dominating the centre of the city with its warren of narrow medieval streets is the Ark, a massive fortress palace, home to the Emirs of Bukhara for over a millenium.
Other sights include the 16th century trading domes, the Bolo Hauz and Kalyon mosques with their beautiful decorations, the Samanid mausoleum (10 th century) and the Labi Hauz pond, where old men in their traditional dress while away the afternoon drinking tea and playing chess. A short drive outside Bukhara is the summer palace of the last Emir with its gaudy mix of eastern and
western decoration.
Surrounded by the vast expanses of the Kyzyl Kum desert, Bukhara still retains the atmosphere of an ancient Silk Road city.
Dominating the centre of the city with its warren of narrow medieval streets is the Ark, a massive fortress palace, home to the Emirs of Bukhara for over a millenium.
Other sights include the 16th century trading domes, the Bolo Hauz and Kalyon mosques with their beautiful decorations, the Samanid mausoleum (10 th century) and the Labi Hauz pond, where old men in their traditional dress while away the afternoon drinking tea and playing chess. A short drive outside Bukhara is the summer palace of the last Emir with its gaudy mix of eastern and
western decoration.
