Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa: the former residence of the Emir in Bukhara

Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa is one of the most famous sights of Bukhara. The Emir's residence is located away from other interesting places in the city, but it is definitely worth a visit for all lovers of unusual architecture and walks in the fresh air.

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History of the palace

The first objects of the Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa palace (the Palace like the stars and the moon) began to be built in the 18th century. These buildings have not survived to our days. At the end of the 19th century, architects created a new project for the complex, and the modern palace with a garden was built at the beginning of the 20th century. Bukharian and Russian masters took part in the work. In the past, the residence was surrounded by a fortress wall 6 meters high.

The architectural monument has reached our time almost unchanged. Today, several structures are located on the territory of the complex, the main of which is the building of the Summer Palace. Inside you can see several unusual rooms: the Throne and Chess halls, the waiting room, and the teahouse, which is also called a "corner of paradise".

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If you go out into the garden, you will certainly notice that peacocks walk freely around the territory of the complex. According to legend, in the past these birds were expelled from paradise, and in search of paradise on Earth they came exactly here, to Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa.

Today, exhibits of the Museum of Decorative and Applied Arts are displayed both in the palace building and in other buildings of the complex. Travelers can get acquainted with historical household items here and imagine themselves as a Bukharian ruler. Excursions are held for visitors — this is a great opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the history of this place.

Entrance to the palace is paid. The territory is open for visits every day, without days off.

After seeing the palace, you can go to the city center to look at the famous Poi-Kalyan architectural ensemble or go up to the ruins of the archaeological town of the Ark Fortress.