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Shopping in Bukhara

shopping in bukhara

Shopping in Bukhara is a captivating experience that blends centuries-old traditions with a vibrant marketplace. As one of the oldest cities on the Silk Road, Bukhara has been a hub of trade and craftsmanship for centuries.

Souvenirs in Bukhara are inexpensive; for example, you can buy beautiful ceramics for an amount equivalent to a few dollars. There are, of course, valuable items such as luxurious handmade carpets and daggers. Among the popular “memory” purchases are tubeteykas, figurines of Hodja Nasreddin, and miniature minarets. You can also acquire boxes and jewelry in the national style, hand-embroidered jackets and robes, silk scarves, Eastern slippers with golden tassels, bowls, copper lamps, and pitchers.

Be sure to bring back traditional Eastern sweets from Bukhara—the more, the better, as they quickly run out.

The peak of Bukhara’s prosperity began in the 16th century when the Shaybanid dynasty came to power. They conquered Samarkand and Bukhara, making the latter the capital of a new state. It was during this time that the city began active construction, and crafts and industry developed rapidly.

Bukhara was one of the most important points on the Silk Road. The huge domes of the city’s ancient covered markets serve as reminders of that era. These domes were constructed at the intersections of the busiest streets to redirect pedestrian traffic, maximizing the clearance of the main thoroughfare where all trade used to take place. These domes were called “toki,” and beneath them were shops and craft workshops. Today, only 4 tokis remain in Bukhara.

1. Bukhara’s Bazaars:

  • Toqi Sarrofon Trading Dome: This historic dome, located near Lyabi-Hauz, was once a major currency exchange. Today, it houses shops selling a variety of souvenirs, including carpets, kerchiefs, and other traditional Uzbek crafts.

  • Telpak Furushon Trading Dome: A little north of Toqi Sarrofon, this dome is known for its hexagonal orientation and houses shops selling knives, jewelry, and musical instruments. It’s a great place to explore Bukhara’s rich artisanal traditions.

  • Toki Zargaron Trading Dome: The largest trading dome in Bukhara, it was historically home to 36 jeweler’s workshops. Today, it offers a variety of jewelry, kerchiefs, and household accessories.

2. Craftsmanship and Souvenirs:

  • Ustoz Shogird Miniature Workshop: Located in Bukhara, this workshop showcases the intricate art of miniature painting. Visitors can purchase unique hand-painted miniatures as souvenirs.

  • Rakhimjon Toshev’s Suzane Workshop: Explore the world of traditional Uzbek embroidery at this workshop. Suzane, or embroidered tapestries, make for beautiful and culturally rich souvenirs.

3. Carpets and Textiles:

  • Jeyran Ecocenter: Not only a breeding center for rare species, Jeyran offers handmade carpets and textiles produced by local craftsmen. Purchasing these items supports both cultural heritage and conservation efforts.

  • Magoki Attori Mosque Carpet Museum: This museum, located within a historic mosque, showcases oriental carpets from the 18th to 20th centuries. Visitors can purchase exquisite carpets from the museum’s collection.

4. Uzbek Ceramics:

  • Gijduvan Ceramics Museum: Gijduvan, a town near Bukhara, is famous for its distinctive ceramics. The museum offers a chance to explore and purchase unique ceramics, from plates to intricate tiles.

5. Puppets and Handicrafts:

  • The Puppet Museum in Bukhara: Founded by Iskandar Khakimov, this museum and workshop showcase handcrafted puppets that mirror real people. Visitors can buy these unique puppets as charming souvenirs.

6. Traditional Clothing:

  • Bukhara State Architectural Art Museum: Located in the Ark Fortress, this museum displays a rich collection of traditional Bukharian clothing. While not for sale, it provides insights into the region’s textile heritage.

7. Jewelry:

  • Jewelry Shops in Bukhara: Wander through the streets of Bukhara to discover local jewelry shops. Toki Zargaron is a notable place for purchasing unique and traditional Uzbek jewelry.

Bukhara’s shopping scene is a cultural immersion where each purchase tells a story of the city’s rich history and craftsmanship. From vibrant bazaars to specialized workshops, every corner of Bukhara invites you to take home a piece of its timeless heritage.

Bukhara, with its rich cultural heritage and artisanal traditions, offers a variety of unique souvenirs that capture the essence of this historic city. Tourists are recommended to purchase the following items as souvenirs from Bukhara:

  1. Carpets and Textiles:

    • Bukharan Carpets: Renowned for their softness, intricate patterns, and vibrant colors, Bukharan carpets make for excellent souvenirs. Traditional patterns and designs are often passed down through generations.

    • Embroidered Suzane: Suzane refers to embroidered tapestries, showcasing Uzbek craftsmanship. These colorful and detailed textiles can be framed or used as decorative pieces, capturing the spirit of Bukharian artistry.

  2. Ceramics:

    • Gijduvan Ceramics: Gijduvan, near Bukhara, is famous for its distinct ceramic traditions. Purchase handmade ceramic plates, bowls, or tiles featuring traditional patterns and vibrant colors.
  3. Puppets and Handicrafts:

    • Handcrafted Puppets: Visit the Puppet Museum in Bukhara and acquire handcrafted puppets created by Iskandar Khakimov. These unique puppets, each with its own personality, serve as whimsical and charming souvenirs.

    • Traditional Handicrafts: Explore local workshops for traditional handicrafts like woodwork, metalwork, and miniature paintings. Items such as carved wooden boxes, metal utensils, and miniature paintings make for culturally rich souvenirs.

  4. Jewelry:

    • Uzbek Jewelry: Toki Zargaron, the largest trading dome in Bukhara, is known for its jewelry shops. Purchase unique Uzbek jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, adorned with intricate designs.
  5. Spices and Local Products:

    • Bukharan Spices: Bukhara’s markets offer a variety of spices and dried fruits. Consider buying local spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika to bring the flavors of Bukhara back home.

    • Silk Products: Bukhara is known for its silk production. Look for silk scarves, shawls, or textiles featuring traditional Bukharian patterns. These luxurious items make for elegant and meaningful souvenirs.

  6. Books and Miniatures:

    • Miniature Paintings: Miniature paintings depicting scenes from Uzbekistan’s history and culture are available in various sizes. These detailed artworks are perfect for art enthusiasts and history lovers.

    • Literature and Poetry Books: Explore local bookstores for works of Uzbek literature and poetry. A book that captures the essence of Bukhara’s history or showcases the talent of local writers can be a thoughtful souvenir.

  7. Traditional Clothing:

    • Uzbek Clothing Items: While traditional clothing may not be suitable for everyone, consider smaller items like embroidered hats, scarves, or traditional Bukharian socks as wearable souvenirs.
  8. Music and Instruments:

    • Traditional Musical Instruments: Explore local music shops for traditional Uzbek musical instruments, such as the dutar or doira. These instruments and local music recordings offer a taste of Bukhara’s musical heritage.

Remember to explore local markets, bazaars, and artisan workshops to discover hidden gems and support local craftsmen. Whatever you choose, these souvenirs will serve as tangible reminders of your enriching journey through the timeless streets of Bukhara.