Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace is arguably Bukhara’s most eclectic landmark. In the early 20th century, it served as a residence of the last Emir of Bukhara, Said Alim Khan. While studying in St. Petersburg, the future ruler was inspired by the interiors of imperial palaces. Years later, he brought some of that European elegance to his own residence.

Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace is located approximately 4 km (2.5 mi) north of Bukhara’s historic center. This area of Bukhara is known for its pleasant microclimate. On hot days, it tends to be slightly cooler here than in the city center. That is why a wellness resort bearing the same name is located next to the palace.

Bukharan Luxury and European Influences

The name "Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa" is usually translated as "Like the Moon and Stars." Sitora, meaning “star”, was also the name of Said Alim Khan’s fourth wife. According to local legend, the emir loved Sitora more than his other wives and had the palace built for her.

To build the residence, the emir invited Bukharan craftsmen and Russian architects. The result was an eclectic fusion of traditional Uzbek architecture and the European decorative trends of the early 20th century.

The palace’s unique character is evident right at the entrance. The grand gates are adorned with a deep red mosaic, a rare color in Uzbekistan’s traditional architecture. Local landmarks typically feature turquoise and blue mosaics, as red was associated with blood and used rarely. At Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the red mosaic symbolizes youth and love.

A Glimpse into Royal Life

One of the palace’s most spectacular interiors is the Grand White Hall, adorned with mirrors and exquisite carved stucco moldings that look like delicate lace. Unusual Art Nouveau-style wooden frames also draw the eye. The hall also features a massive electric chandelier, a luxury at the time when electricity was still a rarity.

The Banquet Hall is no less impressive. It features stained-glass windows, mirrors, and removable wall panels. There was a different set of panels for each season and decoration could be completely changed throughout the year. Unfortunately, of the four original sets, only the autumn version has survived.

The Emir was an avid chess player and even commissioned the construction of the Chess Room, richly decorated with multicolored mirrors.

Said Alim Khan and Sitora spent much of their time in the teahouse, a separate building with enormous windows. Today, it houses a unique collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain.

The palace grounds also contain a pavilion built for Grand Duchess Olga, the younger sister of Emperor Nicholas II. Said Alim Khan and Olga were friends, and legend claims that the emir even proposed marriage to her, but she refused. Nevertheless, he continued to look forward to her visits to Bukhara.

The End of an Era

The palace ceased to be the royal residence in 1920, when Soviet troops occupied Bukhara. Said Alim Khan and his entire court were forced to flee to Afghanistan.

During the Soviet era, the palace lost its original function, and its interiors and artworks gradually became part of a museum collection. Today, the Emir's former residence serves as the Museum of Decorative and Applied Arts.

Other tourist attractions near the palace:

• Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Wellness Resort
• Baha-ud-Din Naqshband Mausoleum
• Mirzo Ulugbek Park