Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa

Overview

The Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa (1652) faces the Ulughbek Madrasa, and the contrast between the two is striking. While Ulughbek's building is austere, Abdulaziz's is exuberantly decorated with the finest tilework and painted ceilings in Bukhara, representing the peak of Bukharan decorative art.

Highlights

• Painted Ceilings: The lecture halls feature some of the most elaborate painted and gilded wooden ceilings in Central Asia.
• Chinese-Influenced Motifs: Unusual dragon and phoenix motifs appear in the decoration, reflecting Chinese artistic influence via the Silk Road.
• Façade Tilework: The entrance portal showcases complex mosaic and haft-rangi (polychrome) tilework.

History

Built in 1652 by Abdulaziz Khan, one of the Janid dynasty rulers, the madrasa was never fully completed — the rear portal and some cells remain unfinished. Despite this, its interior decoration surpasses any other building in Bukhara. The madrasa ceased to function as a school in the 18th century.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Ask the ticket seller to unlock the darskhana (lecture hall) — the painted ceilings inside are the highlight.
• Tip 2: Photography is allowed; the painted ceiling details reward a telephoto lens.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.