I am unsure how this will appear on the blog, but these are the ceilings in the tomb, just couldn't keep my eyes open any longer I'm afraid! After lunch (kebabs of course) we went to the art and craft centre where we were shown examples of silk weaving, embroidery, and wood and plaster carving. One of the girls told us that it takes about 20 days to embroider a piece the size of a cushion .

 

 

The majority of the columns in the Djuma Mosque were cut from trees in the 18th and 19th century and others were collected from destroyed mediaeval buildings. In a huge hall of 55x46metres 212 wooden columns support the roof and three light wells. They are all intricately carved and the light and shadows combine to create a magical atmosphere. (and I won a prize for spotting the one with the Indian design!)

 

 

 

Kurinishkhona was built in 1686-88, destroyed by Iranian armies in the mid 18th century and re erected in 1804-06 by the Lltuzarkhan. There are various courtyards, a treasury and, of course, the harem.

 

 

It is impossible to do justice to such an amazing place; although much of the city is restored there is a real sense of mystery and adventure here, and it is easy to go back in time to the heyday of the silk road.

 

Our extensive, eight hour  walking tour ended there was just a little time for some souvenir shopping then a cultural show and dinner. I chose the local dish, plov, a sort of fried rice with meat,  which I found delicious (not everyone did!). Then it was back to the hotel and an early start for Burkhart on Tuesday.