Magoki Attori Mosque

The Magoki Attori Mosque represents one of Bukhara's most archaeologically and historically significant religious sites, built upon the foundations of a pre-Islamic Zoroastrian fire temple and later a Buddhist temple, making it a unique testament to the religious transformation of Central Asia. The current mosque structure dates primarily from the 12th century, though excavations have revealed continuous religious use of this site for over 2,000 years.
The name "Magoki Attori" translates to "the mosque in the pit of the perfumers," referring both to its partially buried state due to centuries of urban development raising the street level, and to the spice and perfume bazaar that historically surrounded it. 

The mosque's most remarkable feature is its southern facade, which displays some of the finest examples of early Islamic decorative brickwork in Central Asia, with intricate geometric patterns and carved terracotta panels that demonstrate the synthesis of pre- Islamic and Islamic artistic traditions. Archaeological excavations in the 20th century revealed multiple
building phases, ancient coins, and artifacts that illustrate the continuity of sacred space usage across different religious traditions. 

Today, the mosque houses the Museum of Carpets, displaying traditional Uzbek textile arts, while the building itself serves as a fascinating example of architectural palimpsest - where new structures are built upon and incorporate elements of their predecessors.