 Ark - Citadel(Fortress), Bukhara |
Ark-Citadel complex in Bukhara
Ark-Citadel - the Persian word "Ark" means "citadel" or "Fortress" in English. From the earliest ancient times, this was the fortified residence of the rulers of Bukhara. The ark, or fortress, also housed many other buildings with many various functions and purposes. Some of these included separate palaces for the ruler, or emir, and his extended family; temples for worship; military barracks; a mint; workshops for jewelry and other crafts; warehouses for clothing, carpets, treasure, and utensils; administrative offices; an arsenal, prisons, and stables. There was a jail for criminals and separate prison for "free-thinkers", who were considered dangerous. Throughout the history of Bukhara the ark was repeatedly destroyed by various conquerors. Invariably, each successive ruler would then restore the fortress. In the sixteenth century it was restored to its present form.
 Picture of Ark-Citadel in Bukhara |
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