The fortress is always the main symbol of power in the city. Its size and safety showed how rich the ruler was, how protected his possessions and treasures were. The Ark is one of the oldest architectural complexes in Bukhara. It is a real treasure preserved for centuries.

Surprisingly, the history of the emergence of the Ark is still a mystery. Scientists have spent decades trying to determine when it was built. But the only thing that they managed to establish is that in the 7th century there was already a fortification, the base of which resembled the constellation of Ursa Major.

It is known that the fortress was built by slaves. Moreover, they built not only the walls and buildings but also a rather high hill for the fortress. They constructed the future historical monument by hand, without special equipment and under the scorching sun.

For many centuries in a row, the Ark was the main residence of the Bukhara emirs due to its safety and inaccessibility. Besides, it was home to great scientists, poets, artists, architects, who made their creations to glorify great rulers.

Even though the Ark has been through many wars, sieges and destruction, it is pretty well preserved. The greatest damage to the complex appeared in 1920 when the ancient walls were attacked by aircraft. But even that couldn't destroy the sturdy fortress. Today, you can admire the mosque, which is connected to a sad legend: forty beauties who refused to respond to the love of the emir were tortured and thrown out of this mosque into a deep abyss. The splendor of the throne room is amazing. The mosque, built especially for the ruling family, is still captivating with its beauty. The archeological part also includes the partially preserved mint, stables, luxury baths and other buildings.

Today, there are eight thematic museums on the territory of the Ark: the archeological and literary museum, the nature museum, the numismatics department, the prison museum, the stables and the throne yards.