Abdullakhan Madrasa
A historic madrasa showcasing intricate blue tilework and Timurid architectural patterns, offering a tranquil glimpse into Bukhara's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Abdullakhan Madrasa
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic madrasa showcasing intricate blue tilework and Timurid architectural patterns, offering a tranquil glimpse into Bukhara's past.
"Amazing to see the restoration! Well worth going for photos without other tourists in them!"
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Renovations can mean fewer people, perfect for capturing stunning architectural details. :camerawithflash:
🐱 Friendly Felines
Keep an eye out for the resident cats lounging around the grounds. :cat:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Tilework
Marvel at the stunning blue and turquoise glazed bricks and majolica, often in diamond patterns.
Architectural Symmetry
Observe the 'kosh' or mirror pattern, reflecting Timurid architectural styles.
Calligraphic Iwans
Admire the decorative bands of blue tiles and semi-columns adorning the iwans.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Renovation Status
Off-the-Beaten-Path Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Renovations can mean fewer people, perfect for capturing stunning architectural details. :camerawithflash:
🐱 Friendly Felines
Keep an eye out for the resident cats lounging around the grounds. :cat:
🧐 Architectural Details
Look closely for the unique diamond patterns and wooden doors assembled without nails. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
🗺️ Check Access
Confirm which parts are open due to ongoing renovations before you go. :informationdeskperson:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Renovations can mean fewer people, perfect for capturing stunning architectural details. :camerawithflash:
🐱 Friendly Felines
Keep an eye out for the resident cats lounging around the grounds. :cat:
🧐 Architectural Details
Look closely for the unique diamond patterns and wooden doors assembled without nails. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
🗺️ Check Access
Confirm which parts are open due to ongoing renovations before you go. :informationdeskperson:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Abdullakhan Madrasa to be a beautiful historical site with stunning tilework and architecture, though its current renovation status means some areas are inaccessible. It's appreciated for its quieter atmosphere compared to more tourist-heavy locations, offering unique photo opportunities.
"Half being renovated but amazing to see the restoration! Well worth going for photos without other tourists in them!"
Gemma Bassett
"So one side is undergoing renovation and the entrance is closed, but the other side isn’t. So it’s not 100% true temporarily closed as it says on Google. Typical lovely tilework if a bit faded. Some nice kitties around 😍"
Jennifer Smith
"This place is rarely visited by tourists and somewhat abandoned. It's a shame because it could be better promoted. It's a madrassa built in 1588, which was placed opposite a very similar (but not identical! Keep your eyes peeled) one built about 20 years earlier, adopting the kosh (mirror, as we would say in Italian) pattern that characterized Timurid architecture. The decoration is lovely, with tiles mostly arranged in a diamond pattern, in blue and turquoise, alternating with rough bricks. What differs from the one opposite is the decoration of the iwan, which features a large calligraphic band made of blue tiles, flanked by two semi-columns. My rating is a bit low because the interior is inaccessible and the place appears abandoned, and because it seems like a somewhat tired repetition of established standards."
Aldo Frigerio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Abdullakhan Madrasa is located in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. It's often visited in conjunction with other historical sites in the city. Taxis are readily available for getting around Bukhara, and many visitors walk between nearby attractions.
While direct public transport routes might be limited, taxis are a convenient and affordable option for reaching the madrasa from most parts of Bukhara.
Walking is highly recommended to soak in the atmosphere of Bukhara's historic center. Many of the key sites, including Abdullakhan Madrasa, are relatively close to each other.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the madrasa grounds is generally free, though specific access to certain areas might be restricted due to ongoing renovations.
As it's a historical site and often less formally managed, hours can be flexible. It's best to visit during daylight hours. Check local information for any specific closures due to renovation work.
The madrasa is partially open, with one side accessible while the other is undergoing renovation. It's not entirely closed, but interior access might be limited.
No advance booking is typically required for Abdullakhan Madrasa, as it's usually a free-access historical site.
📸 📸 Photography
The courtyards and the exterior facades offer excellent photographic opportunities, especially the intricate tilework and iwan decorations. The renovation work can also provide unique, crowd-free shots.
Photography is generally allowed in the accessible areas. However, if any interior spaces are open, it's always good practice to be respectful and check for any specific signage.
Early morning offers the best light for capturing the colors of the tilework and the architectural details without harsh shadows.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The Abdullakhan Madrasa was erected between 1588 and 1590.
It's a prime example of Asian architecture, featuring elements of Timurid design, including the 'kosh' or mirror pattern.
The madrasa prominently features glazed bricks and blue-and-blue majolica for its decorative elements, along with rough bricks.
The dome is originally decorated with geometric patterns, including five-, eight-, and nine-pointed stars, giving it a festive appearance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be aware that renovations might limit access to certain areas, so keep expectations flexible. The presence of local cats can be a fun point of interest for younger visitors. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to the rich history and artistic heritage of Uzbekistan in a less overwhelming setting.
📸 Photographers
The ongoing renovations can be a double-edged sword: while they might restrict access, they also mean fewer crowds, allowing for cleaner shots of the architecture. The early morning light is ideal for highlighting the textures and colors of the glazed bricks. Look for unique angles and details, especially in the less-restored sections.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
The madrasa's exterior and courtyard facades are adorned with intricate decorations using glazed bricks and blue-and-blue majolica. The use of these materials creates a vibrant visual appeal, especially when illuminated by the sun. The alternating patterns of tiles and rough bricks add depth and texture to the structure.
Pay close attention to the iwans, which feature high portals and are often decorated with calligraphic bands made of blue tiles, flanked by semi-columns. The dome itself is a marvel, decorated with geometric patterns like five-, eight-, and nine-pointed stars, contributing to the madrasa's festive look, particularly at dawn.
The Experience of Visiting
Despite some areas being inaccessible, the remaining accessible sections still showcase the madrasa's beauty. The tilework, though sometimes faded, remains impressive, and the architectural details are worth appreciating. The presence of local cats adds a charming, informal element to the visit.
Some reviews mention a feeling of the place being 'somewhat abandoned' or 'tired,' but this can also contribute to its authentic charm. It's a chance to see a historical monument without the hustle and bustle of more popular sites, allowing for a more contemplative appreciation of its artistry.
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