The laws and traditions of the Jewish peoples of Uzbekistan have thrived for centuries in this mostly Islamic region. Unique communities of Jews carried on their distinctive traditions throughout the region for hundreds of years. Stories of their arrival in Central Asia vary from the 6th through the 19th centuries, but the Jewish quarters in the cities of Uzbekistan are well preserved. Experience the thrill of history and the story of a people in this truly amazing part of the world.
Highlights:
· Visit exotic oriental bazaars, traditional tea houses and ancient villages
· Discover cultural treasures of Central Asia: magnificent synagogues and ancient palaces
· Meet and interact with hospitable Central Asians
· Enjoy traditional music, dance performances and fashion shows
In Bukhara, explore Labi Khaus Complex (“the complex around the pond”), Nadir Divan Begi Khanaka (old hotel for merchants) And Medreseh. The LH pond dates from the XVIIth century when it was the principal source of water (built on the land of a Jewish widow, who then was given the land to built the synagogue and the Jewish Quarter). Visit an ancient Chaykhana, the sculpture of Khodga Nasriddin in bronze made by local Jewish sculptor Yaakov Shapiro, Synagogue, Jewish Quarter, school and kindergarten. You will be greeted with the words “Shalom Aleyhim” “Peace be with you”, a tradition not found among European Jews, visit traditional houses of nineteenth Jews later converted into hotels, Lunch at the house of Fayzullo Khodjaev with national costume show. The sightseeing continues with trade domes (XVI c) of money changers, hat sellers, silk, carpets, puppets and jewelry, Magoki Attari site which was originally a Zoroastrian temple, Abdulazizkhan Madreseh with its sandali (old version of house heating), Poi-Kalon Ensemble with the greatest minaret of Central Asia. Lunch. Visit the Ark (winter residence of local rulers from the first century), Bolo Khaus Complex, Ismail Samoniy Mosque.
