Notes on the Geography of Uzbekistan: Bukhara: Bazaars

Bukhara has always had a market, but shopping habits have changed.

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Originally, the most important markets were the covered bazaars at street intersections.  This one is the Jeweller's Bazaar, or Tak-i-Zargaran (literally, "Vault of the Jewellers").  It lies at the historic center of the city, the origin of the ancient street grid.  The view here is north.

We've circled 90 degrees counterclockwise and are now looking west, down the original main street.  On the far side is the Poi Kalon.

Another of the toks, this one the Tok-i Sarrafon, or money-changer's bazaar. These bazaars were owned by the government, and merchants using stalls inside were taxed.

The toks today are devoted to tourist goods.

The real Bukhara market is off to the west, where it hugs the ruins of the ancient and disintegrating city wall.

Garlic, potatoes, and whisk brooms.

A large part of the market is devoted to used clothing.

Hardware.

You can hardly call these vendors merchants: maybe we'll call the place a real farmer's market.  In the background you can make out an ersatz McDonalds.

As in the past, the market is regulated by the government, which taxes sellers.

Careful!

On the way home, cradle in arm.