Introduction Topic: Tourism resources of Bukhara Chapter. I. Why should we go to Bukhara?

3. VISIT THE MYSTERIOUS CHOR MINOR
Of all the Bukhara attractions, Chor Minor might just be the most intriguing one. It’s quite unclear when this monument was built, or what exactly it was built for. The most probable explanation, though, is that it was constructed in 1807 (though some say as early as the late 17th century) as the historic gate of a madrasah that has long been destroyed. It’s also said that the top floor of Chor Minor had a chamber that was likely used as a library for the madrasah.
Chor Minor’s name translates to “four minarets”, which refers to the four charming blue-domed towers crowning each corner of the building. Each of them has a different shape and design, and together, they’re believed to represent four different religions practiced in Central Asia ⁠— Christianity, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, and Islam. In fact, you can see certain elements of these religions depicted on the decorations of the towers, including a Buddhist praying-wheel and a Christian fish motif. You can also climb to the roof of the building to get a closer look at them !


4. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN HISTORY AT THE ARK OF BUKHARA
The spectacular Ark of Bukhara is a massive fortress built in the 5th century AD. Being the oldest structure in the city, it’s definitely one of the most remarkable things to see in Bukhara. Many notable poets, scientists, and mathematicians once lived and worked inside this fortress, including Rudaki, Ibn Sina, and Omar Khayyam. According to Ibn Sina, there was apparently a unique library inside the Ark, but it was unfortunately destroyed in one of the many sieges that took place. In fact, the Ark of Bukhara has been destroyed and rebuilt several times in the course of its history. In the 13th century, it was ransacked by Genghis Khan, and in the 16th century, rebuilt by the Shaybanids.
By the beginning of the 20th century, the Ark was inhabited by over 3,000 people and was essentially a city within a city, housing royal palaces, government offices, and homes of high officials. It remained the residence of Bukhara’s emirs for centuries before falling to Russia in 1920. Today, the Ark of Bukhara houses several museums where you can learn about the history of the city. If you’re lucky, you might also catch a traditional dance performance right outside !