Nestled to the west of Ark, the historic heart of Bukhara, Registan Square unfolds as a captivating tableau of bygone eras. Long before the Arab period, this square served as a public space, witnessing the rise and fall of administrative buildings, divans (ministries), and palaces until the 13th century. Subsequently, bustling markets claimed their space, evolving the square into a vibrant hub of commerce.
As the 16th century dawned, the entrance to Registan welcomed two notable trade establishments: Rasta and Taki-Tirgaron. Here, skilled armorers showcased their wares, contributing to the square’s reputation as a marketplace. The heart of Registan featured passages such as Taki-Org-Furushon and Tim, where traders peddled an array of goods—ranging from headdresses and cotton fabrics to meat, cereals, fancy items, paper, inks, cradles, cattle, watermelons, melons, and wooden utensils.
In the midst of this commercial symphony, the square played host to a spectrum of activities. Capital punishments unfolded opposite Ark amidst the bustling bazaars. Further along, weapon shops, the main commander’s reception room, Poyand Madrassah, Bozori Gusfaid Madrassah of the butcher corporation, and Dorul-shifo Madrassah for aspiring doctors created a rich tapestry of life around Registan Square. The complex included hospitals and polyclinic departments, contributing to the square’s multifaceted significance.
Amidst the ebb and flow of history, one enduring monument stands as a testament to Registan’s past—the Bolo-khauz Madrassah, built in the 18th century. With its picturesque design featuring a lavish ayvan adorned with numerous pillars, the madrassah faces Registan, creating a stunning reflection in the tranquil waters of the khauz.
Registan Square, with its layers of trade, tradition, and historical significance, continues to beckon visitors, inviting them to unravel the stories etched in its timeworn stones.
