Magoki Attori Mosque

An ancient mosque named Magoki Attori is located in the center of the protected area of Bukhara. Researchers prove that it was built before the advent of Islam and is one of the very first in Bukhara. A fire-worshipping temple used to be located on the site of Magoka Attori, and a Moon Market was located nearby. There was a bustling trade in medicinal drugs and spices. During the celebration of Navruz, this bazaar displayed a huge number of figurines of various deities of the Zoroastrian religion, which personified a bountiful harvest and fertility.

With the advent of Islam, the temple of fire worshippers was destroyed, and a mosque was erected in its place. Archaeological finds found in this area allowed scientists to conclude that the approximate date of construction of this structure is the 9th century.

When trying to recreate the original mosque building, archaeologists found out that it was made with six load-bearing pillars and a powerful twelve-domed ceiling. An arch was built for the main entrance, supported by two stone columns with intricate carvings. This entrance was located in the long part of the building and was slightly offset from the center.

Unfortunately, the original Magoki Attori building was almost completely destroyed by fire at the end of the 10th century. Now only the surviving elements of the walls and fragments of carved gancha can be seen from it. Two centuries later, the sanctuary was rebuilt using a similar building plan. The new mosque lasted for about three centuries and collapsed under the influence of time. All that remains of this structure is the southern portal, along with its unique decor.

During the construction of the Magoka Attori, the builders successfully combined brick patterns in the form of "bows" with glazed inserts and terracotta mosaics. The vertically arranged panels were completely covered with inscriptions in Arabic, as well as lavishly decorated with relief girih. The unusual shape of the patterns and the original play of shadows on them speaks to the high level of art of the architects of Bukhara at that time.

The new eastern portal was built already in the XVI century. Its decor has been preserved to this day almost intact. Everyone can appreciate the elegant decor of the Magoki Attori portals, consisting of heavy majolica, alabaster carvings, terracotta masonry, and polished bricks.