Historical and Cultural Places

Magoki Attori Mosque

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The Magoki Attori Mosque is an architectural monument in Bukhara (the 10th–16th centuries). It was named the Mağoki Attori Mosque because it is located in the Mağok (depression) and near the Attor Market. It was rebuilt in the 12th century on the site of the ancient 4-column Moh Mosque (9th century) according to an old design (identified in 1934 as a result of archaeological research). It was renovated in the 14th century, and the upper part of the facade was destroyed in the 15th century.

Magoki Attori Mosque is one of the oldest surviving architectural monuments in Bukhara and a remarkable example of medieval architecture dating from the 12th–16th centuries. The mosque is located more than 4.5 meters below the current ground level, which is why it is called “Magoki” (“in a pit” or “underground”). It received the name Attori because it stood near the historic spice and perfume merchants' market.

The mosque is situated in the historic center of Bukhara, near the trading dome of Toqi Sarrofon. It was rebuilt in the 12th century on the site of the ancient Moh (Moon) Mosque, which originally dated back to the 9th century. Throughout its history, the building underwent several restorations, including major reconstruction during the 16th century. In 1993, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Historic Centre of Bukhara.

According to local traditions, before the construction of Bukhara’s first synagogue, Jews and Muslims worshipped in the same building, making the mosque a symbol of religious coexistence in the city.

Architecture

The mosque has a rectangular plan measuring approximately 13.35 × 17.6 meters. Its interior contains six columns and twelve domes, with the central dome rising higher than the others and illuminated through windows in its drum. The western wall contains a simple mihrab, while the eastern side features a wide staircase leading down into the mosque.

One of the mosque’s most impressive features is its beautifully decorated southern portal, adorned with carved terracotta, intricate brickwork, and elegant inscriptions. The carved columns and ornamental details are considered outstanding examples of the Bukhara architectural school of the 12th century.

Today, the building houses the Carpet Museum, where visitors can see fine examples of Uzbek, Turkmen, Persian, Kazakh, and Armenian carpets dating from the 18th to the 20th centuries.