Bukhara - Trade dome Toqi Sarrafon

Trade dome Toqi Sarrafon in Bukhara – A historical trading centre

Medieval Bukhara was one of the most important trading centres along the Silk Road and attracted merchants from all over Central Asia, Iran, India, Russia and China. This cosmopolitan trading dynamic was reflected in the city’s planning, which was specifically designed to cater for the lively trade in goods. The central streets and squares served as lively bazaars where specialised traders offered their wares for sale. In order to optimise market operations, sophisticated, multi-ventilated domed buildings known as ‘toqi’ were erected at strategic junctions in the city. Three of these imposing structures have survived to this day:

• Toqi Zargaron – the domed jewellers’ bazaar
• Toqi Sarrafon – the domed bazaar of the money changers
• Toqi Telpak Furushon – the domed bazaar of cap sellers

The Toqi Sarrafon – a historic currency exchange
The Toqi Sarrafon is considered one of the most impressive domed bazaars in Bukhara. Its location at an important crossroads connecting the city centre with the medieval suburbs as well as the Registan and Rabat underlines its strategic importance. The name ‘Sarrafon’ is derived from the so-called Sarrafs – money changers and merchants who were essential for the flourishing international trade. As currency exchange in Bukhara was dominated by Indian merchants, the Toqi Sarrafon is often regarded as one of the oldest ‘currency exchanges’ in the Orient.

Architectural masterpiece
The architecture of the Toqi Sarrafon is an outstanding example of the architecture of medieval Central Asia. The building is characterised by a central, vaulted dome resting on four massive arches. The structure is harmoniously framed by the surrounding buildings, creating an architectural ensemble that blends perfectly into the cityscape. Particularly noteworthy is the ‘charzamin’ technique, a common architectural style in Bukhara known for its stability and excellent air circulation – a crucial feature given the hot climatic conditions in the region.

The dome and the neighbouring vaults were constructed in such a way that they optimally regulate air circulation. This created a pleasant atmosphere inside the bazaar, even on hot summer days. The ornate design of the arches and brick patterns reflects the high craftsmanship of the master builders of the time and makes the Toqi Sarrafon a jewel of Islamic architecture.

Transformation into a modern trading centre
With the end of the classical Silk Road era, the Toqi Sarrafon lost its original function as a currency exchange, but remained an important trading centre. Today, the historic building is home to numerous market stalls selling traditional oriental goods. Visitors will find an impressive selection of handmade carpets, elaborately embroidered headdresses and fine jewellery, including intricately crafted necklaces, earrings and rings that reflect the centuries-old craftsmanship of the region.

Ornately decorated metalware, ceramics and decorative objects can also be purchased here. The skilfully crafted Suzani embroideries, which are among the most famous works of textile art in Central Asia, are particularly noteworthy. These colourful fabrics with symbolic patterns and elaborate ornaments are not only decorative works of art, but also a living testimony to the cultural history of the region.

A living monument to the Silk Road
The Toqi Sarrafon is more than just a market – it is a symbol of Bukhara’s former economic and cultural heyday. Even though it no longer harbours money changers, it remains a place of international trade and cultural exchange. Visitors can not only purchase unique goods here, but also immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a city that was a hub of the global economy for centuries.

Thanks to its impressive architecture and vibrant trading history, Toqi Sarrafon is a must-visit destination for travellers who want to experience Bukhara’s glorious past.