Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa
A 17th-century architectural marvel in Bukhara, famed for its vibrant tilework, intricate designs, and artisan shops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century architectural marvel in Bukhara, famed for its vibrant tilework, intricate designs, and artisan shops.
"Truly impressive architecture with detailed tilework, showing the richness of Bukhara’s history."
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate tilework and stucco for stunning photos. The entrance is particularly photogenic!
🛍️ Shop for Souvenirs
Explore the artisan shops inside for unique handmade crafts and traditional Uzbek items.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Entrance Portal
Main Facade
A monumental pishtaq adorned with intricate tilework, calligraphy, and majestic arches.
Colorful Tilework
Interior and Exterior
Exquisite glazed tiles, carved mosaics, and muqarnas showcasing 17th-century Islamic art.
Artisan Shops
Interior Courtyard and Cells
Discover traditional crafts, handmade souvenirs, and local artwork within the historic cells.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Understanding the Madrasa's Dual Role
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate tilework and stucco for stunning photos. The entrance is particularly photogenic! 
🛍️ Shop for Souvenirs
Explore the artisan shops inside for unique handmade crafts and traditional Uzbek items.
🚶♀️ Opposite Ulugh Beg Madrasa
Visit the Ulugh Beg Madrasa across the street for a fascinating architectural comparison.
💰 Entrance Fee
There's an entrance fee, and a separate ticket for the museum. Consider if it's worth it for you.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate tilework and stucco for stunning photos. The entrance is particularly photogenic!
🛍️ Shop for Souvenirs
Explore the artisan shops inside for unique handmade crafts and traditional Uzbek items.
🚶♀️ Opposite Ulugh Beg Madrasa
Visit the Ulugh Beg Madrasa across the street for a fascinating architectural comparison.
💰 Entrance Fee
There's an entrance fee, and a separate ticket for the museum. Consider if it's worth it for you.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa's stunning architecture and vibrant tilework, calling it a jewel of Bukhara. The artisan shops inside add a unique charm, offering a blend of history and commerce. While some find the entrance fee and museum ticket a bit steep, the visual splendor and historical significance make it a highly recommended stop for experiencing old Bukhara's spirit.
"The Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa is truly impressive. Its architecture is stunning, with detailed tilework and unique designs different from other madrasas in Bukhara. The entrance is grand and beautifully decorated, showing the richness of Bukhara’s history. Inside, there are small artisan shops where you can see traditional crafts and buy handmade souvenirs. It’s peaceful, not very crowded, and perfect to admire the art and history. Highly recommended for anyone who loves architecture and wants to feel the spirit of old Bukhara."
Misstress Virtuala
"Old ruins of a madrassah, that is being restored. It has jewelry and clothing shops lined up on the entrance as well as inside."
Taniyyus Syed
"🕌 Abdulaziz Khan Madrassah – The Jewel of Bukhara’s Architectural Revival
📍 Location: Bukhara, Uzbekistan (opposite Ulugh Beg Madrassah)
📅 Built: 1652
👑 Commissioned by: Abdulaziz Khan – Ruler of the Ashtarkhanid (Janid) dynasty
✨ Highlights of Abdulaziz Khan Madrassah:
Striking Architecture
One of Bukhara’s most ornate and richly decorated madrasahs, it showcases a blend of traditional Timurid style and Safavid-influenced Persian motifs.
Intricate Ornamentation
Famous for its colorful glazed tiles, carved mosaics, and muqarnas (stalactite vaulting) – an artistic marvel in every corner.
Unique Façade
Its monumental entrance (pishtaq) features calligraphic inscriptions, floral patterns, and majestic arches, reflecting 17th-century artistic zenith in Bukhara.
Interior Wonder
Inside, visitors will find beautifully decorated lecture halls and prayer rooms with dazzling tilework and carved plaster.
Twin to Ulugh Beg Madrassah
Built nearly two centuries after the Ulugh Beg Madrassah (opposite it), it serves as a fascinating contrast in architectural evolution and ambition.
🌍 Why Visit?
A showcase of Islamic art and the grandeur of the Janid era
Perfect for lovers of art, architecture, and history
A key stop on the Silk Road heritage trail
Offers stunning photography opportunities day and night"
Saurav Debnath
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa is located in the heart of Bukhara's historic center, directly opposite the Ulugh Beg Madrasa. It's easily accessible on foot if you're staying in the old city. Taxis are readily available for longer distances.
Yes, it's part of the historic Lyab-i Hauz ensemble and forms a pair with the Ulugh Beg Madrasa, creating a significant architectural ensemble in Bukhara.
Walking is the best way to explore the historic center, including the Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa and its surroundings. Many attractions are within close proximity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee to explore the madrasa. A separate ticket is also available for a museum within the premises.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, it's open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally or with your guide for the most up-to-date information.
Reviews suggest that while the entrance fee is required, some visitors feel the exterior and parts of the interior are impressive enough, while others find the museum ticket less valuable.
While the exterior can be admired at night, access to the interior and shops is typically limited to daylight hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand entrance portal, the intricate tilework on the facade and interior, and the courtyard offer excellent photography opportunities. The contrast with the Ulugh Beg Madrasa is also striking.
Photography is generally allowed inside, but it's always good practice to be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage.
Early mornings and late afternoons, during the golden hours, provide the best lighting for capturing the vibrant colors and architectural details.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Crafts
The madrasa houses small artisan shops selling traditional crafts, jewelry, clothing, and handmade souvenirs.
Many of the items are handmade by local artisans, offering a chance to purchase authentic Uzbek crafts. Haggling might be possible.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good opportunity to introduce them to the Silk Road's cultural heritage in a visually stimulating way. Consider focusing on the visual aspects and the shopping experience to keep younger visitors interested. The contrast with the Ulugh Beg Madrasa across the street can also be a fun 'spot the difference' activity. Remember to bring water and snacks, as exploring can be tiring under the sun.
🎨 Art & Architecture Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the unique decorative elements, such as floral patterns, mythical birds, and geometric designs, which are meticulously rendered. The contrast with the earlier Ulugh Beg Madrasa provides valuable context for understanding the evolution of architectural styles in Bukhara.
🛍️ Shoppers & Souvenir Hunters
While exploring the shops, you can also admire the madrasa's architecture. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere, and don't hesitate to engage with the local artisans to learn more about their craft. Haggling is generally expected, so a friendly negotiation can lead to a great deal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel of the 17th Century
The madrasa is renowned for its striking architecture, blending traditional Timurid styles with Safavid-influenced Persian motifs. Its monumental entrance, or pishtaq, is a masterpiece of intricate ornamentation, featuring vibrant glazed tiles, detailed carved mosaics, and muqarnas (stalactite vaulting). The facade explodes with the first use of bright yellow tiles in Bukhara, a departure from previous architectural norms.
+1Inside, visitors can explore beautifully decorated lecture halls and prayer rooms. The ceiling and walls showcase intricate stucco work and ornate tile designs, reflecting the sophisticated artistry of the 17th century. Today, parts of the madrasa have been transformed into a marketplace, offering a unique blend of historical heritage and contemporary cultural activities, where visitors can find traditional crafts and artwork.
A Tale of Two Madrasas: Abdulaziz Khan vs. Ulugh Beg
This juxtaposition highlights the evolution of architectural styles and artistic preferences in Bukhara over time. The Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa's facade, with its bold use of color and elaborate ornamentation, was intended to impress and perhaps even outshine its predecessor. This visual contrast provides a rich learning experience for anyone interested in the history of Islamic architecture in Central Asia.
Visiting both madrasas allows for a deeper appreciation of Bukhara's rich past and the distinct contributions of different rulers and eras. It’s a perfect opportunity to compare and contrast the artistic sensibilities and engineering capabilities of the respective periods.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit