Mir i Arab Medressa, Bukhara

The Mir-i-Arab Medressa stands opposite the Kalon Mosque in the historic center of Bukhara. Founded in the 16th century, the Islamic school features two distinctive blue domes and other tilework.

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History of Mir i Arab Medressa

The medressa's namesake, Mir-i-Arab, was a 16th-century Naqshbandi sheikh from Yemen. He had a powerful influence on the Shaybanid ruler Ubaidullah Khan and also financed the original complex.

Mir-i-Arab Medressa was a working Islamic seminary from the 16th century until it was closed in 1920. It was reponed by Stalin in 1944 in an effort to gain Muslim favor for his war effort.

What to See at Mir i Arab Medressa

The medressa is off-limits to tourists, but its facade can be enjoyed from Kalon Square. An especially fine view of the Mir-i-Arab can be had from the top of the adjacent Kalon Minaret.

The two luminous blue domes of the medressa are beautifully tiled and stand out against the mostly brown architecture around it. The tombs of Sheikh Mir-i-Arab and Ubaidullah Khan are beneath the northern dome.

Quick Facts on Mir i Arab Medressa

Site Information
Names:Mir i Arab Medressa
Categories:academic buildings
Visitor and Contact Information
Coordinates:39.776101° N, 64.415819° E
Address:Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Lodging:View hotels near Mir i Arab Medressa
Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours and prices can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

References

  1. Lonely Planet Central Asia

More Information

Mir-i-Arab Medressa from the Kalon Minaret. © Miles Hunter
Fish-eye view of Mir-i-Arab Medressa. © Miles Hunter
The blue-tiled facade of the medressa. © Ben Paarman
Another view of the facade, later in the day. © Amauri Aguiar
One of two luminous blue domes. © Henrik Moltke

Map of Mir i Arab Medressa, Bukhara

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