Chor Bakr Necropolis

Going little outskirts of Bukhara will take you to another tourist attraction that has a deep Islamic connection. Chor Bakr Necropolis or the Chor Bakr Memorial Complex in Bukhara, Uzbekistan is a memorial complex that consists of tombs, a madrasa, and a mosque. This is more of a historic burial complex, mostly consisting of family tombs.

History Of Chor Bakr Necropolis

In one of my previous blogs, I mentioned Chor Minor and how the word “Chor” which means four is also similar in some Indian languages. Similarly, out here Chor Bakr means the four “Bakrs”. Now who were these four “Bakrs”? They are supposed to be the direct descendants of the prophet Mohammed. All these four men had direct lineage to the prophet himself.

Hazrat Abu Bakr Sa’d Yamani died in the year 970, Hazrat Abu Bakr Hamid died in the year 937, Hazrat Abu Bakr Muhammad ibn Fazl died in the year 991, and Hazrat Abu Bakr Tarkhan died in the year 945 are all buried here in this cemetery.

This place in its current form was built by Abdullah Khan II in the year 1560. He ordered the construction of the khonaqo and mosque to honor Juybar Sheikh Khoja Muhammad Islam who was his master.

What To See At Chor Bakr Necropolis

This is like a vast cemetery with all the tombs covered and divided into different sections. Each of the sections has its gates. The main large structures within this complex are the Khonaqo/Khanaqah, or the House of God where leaders and scholars would assemble to have a discussion. In a way, this can be compared to a large meeting hall. Next to it on the right is the madrasa which has a small minaret in the front followed by the mosque next to it.

A Newly Built Mosque Near The Main Entrance

Gardens And Green Houses Inside The Complex

Chor Bakr Necropolis – Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Chor Bakr Necropolis – Khonaqo/Khanaqah, Madrasa, Minaret & Mosque — Khonaqo/Khanaqah, Madrasa, Minaret & Mosque

Apart from this one can see a large water tank usually used in places like this for religious ablution. Washrooms, restrooms for travelers, shelters, etc.

Entrance To One Of The Sections Containing Tombs

Water Tank Surrounded By Different Buildings Within The Complex

Main Alleyway With Different Sections Containing Tombs On Either Side

This is a non-ticketed monument and all the sections are accessible to tourists. If you are visiting on a Friday keep in mind the prayer time as this place has a functioning mosque.