BAKU, March 22. /Dunyo IA/. A ceremonial reopening of the Bukhara Caravanserai took place in the capital of Azerbaijan following extensive restoration work, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The 15th-century monument, of national significance, underwent major restoration over 3.5 years under the directive of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and at the request of the Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve. The restoration was carried out by the Austrian company Atelier Erich Pummer GmbH.

The event was attended by Anar Alekperov, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Executive Director of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Saadat Yusifova, Deputy Minister of Culture, Ambassador of Uzbekistan Bahrom Ashrafkhanov, Rufat Mahmud, Chairman of the Icherisheher Reserve, as well as representatives from cultural circles and the public.

Speakers highlighted the importance of the restoration for preserving historical heritage and passing it on to future generations. It was emphasized that the history of the Bukhara Caravanserai is closely linked to the centuries-old relations between the peoples of Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. Historically, the caravanserai served as a hub for merchants and travelers from the cities of Transoxiana, fostering trade, cultural, and friendly ties.

Under the new concept, the caravanserai has been transformed into a modern creative space for artisans. The complex houses 18 workshops, each used by masters of different crafts. It will host masterclasses in weaving, sculpture, leatherwork, painting, carpet weaving, miniature art, artistic ceramics, and woodcarving, allowing visitors to explore the traditions of Azerbaijani and Uzbek folk art up close.