Labi Hovuz (“by the pool”) is an ensemble built around an old pool in the historic centre of Bukhara. It brings together the Kukeldash Madrasa, the Nadir Divan-Beghi Khanaka and the Nadir Divan-Beghi Madrasa, and is one of the city’s liveliest public spaces.

History and construction period

The pool was built around 1620 on the initiative of the vizier Nadir Divan-Beghi. The Kukeldash Madrasa dates from 1568–1569, the khanaka from 1620 and the Nadir Divan-Beghi Madrasa from 1622; the madrasa was originally built as a caravanserai.

Architectural features

The pool measures about 46 × 36 metres. The Kukeldash Madrasa has 160 student cells and is one of the largest madrasas in Bukhara. A modern statue of Khoja Nasreddin stands near the pool.

Location

In the heart of the historic centre; Chor Minor lies in the neighbourhood to the northeast. Open in maps

Visiting

The square around the pool is a public space and a convenient starting point for walking the historic centre. Check the opening hours of the individual buildings on site.

Explore more

Chor Minor · Poi Kalon Ensemble

Photos: Sutha Hasan (Pexels), Shanjir H (Unsplash). Source: Wikipedia.