The Ark of Bukhara

About this attraction

The Ark is a large fortress in the northwest of Bukhara. It was first built and occupied around the 5th century AD, and its current form began to develop in the 16th century under the Shaybanid dynasty. Rulers, emirs, viziers and military leaders lived inside its walls, and it worked as a small town as much as a military structure until it fell to Soviet forces in 1920.

In 1920 much of the Ark was damaged in the fighting, and accounts of who was responsible differ. Parts have since been restored and now hold museums, including an archaeological museum and a local history museum. Visitors can see the reception and coronation court, the throne room and the court mosque. Climbing the entrance ramp gives a sense of the fortress scale, and the rooms inside explain how Bukhara was ruled.

Where to pray

The court mosque is part of the museum complex. Modest dress is advised across Bukhara, with shoulders and knees covered. Sources read do not describe regular prayers there.

Must see

Location

Northwest of the old town, Bukhara (facing the Registan square), Uzbekistan

Nearby

Within 5 km, nearest first.