News

In Icherisheher, the 15th-century nationally significant monument — the Bukhara Caravanserai — has officially reopened following extensive restoration and conservation work, alongside the presentation of the new “BuxarArt” art space that will operate within it. The event was attended by government officials, representatives of the culture and tourism sectors, and members of the media, who had the opportunity to explore the monument’s renewed appearance up close.

Built along an ancient trade route and serving as a refuge for Central Asian merchants, this magnificent structure has regained its former glory as part of a large-scale project implemented under the relevant decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The restoration process was carried out with strict adherence to preserving both the architectural and engineering characteristics of the monument.

The restoration and conservation work was commissioned by the Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve and executed over 3.5 years by Austria’s renowned Atelier Erich Pummer GmbH, a company with international experience in heritage preservation. To maintain the authenticity of the historic monument, the work paid special attention to the original masonry techniques, authentic materials, architectural details, and structural characteristics. Modern technologies and materials were used in a way that did not compromise the historical appearance. Later-added foreign layers were removed from the walls, the stones were conserved, and the building’s original structural stability was restored.

Under the new concept, the Bukhara Caravanserai has been transformed into a functional and creative space for local artisans. The interior includes 18 rooms, each designated for artists representing various fields of craftsmanship. Artisans will create and exhibit their works daily, and visitors will have the opportunity to purchase these unique products.

Additionally, BuxarArt will serve as an interactive art space for local and international visitors. Artisans will conduct masterclasses, demonstrating the intricacies of Azerbaijani folk art in practice. Traditional crafts represented include weaving, sculpture, leatherworking, painting, carpet weaving, ironworking, miniature art, artistic ceramics, marbling (ebru), felting, and woodcarving.

The reopening of the Bukhara Caravanserai is of great significance for preserving national craft traditions, expanding the creative opportunities of artisans, and presenting Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage to both local and foreign guests. With its unique architectural style and mystical atmosphere, BuxarArt is set to become one of the most captivating cultural destinations for residents and visitors of the capital alike.