Bukharan Jews Synagogue In Kokand

A bit of a confusing title for the synagogue as Bukhara is nowhere near the city of Kokand, which is in Eastern Uzbekistan, in the Fergana Valley. The synagogue was built in 1904, presumably for Jews from Bukhara who wandered over to Kokand. New location, give props to home city heritage.

Humble exterior, probably a nice, garden oasis on a sunny, summer day.

Humble interior. Through the main entrance, first a relaxing, eating area with, yes, a humble kitchen.

The main temple area, bimah in the center.

View of the ark where torahs, prayer scrolls, are kept. The sign seems to be a list of exalted rabbis. Or Important Men. Prayer books of various vintages.

Prep station. Purify your hands, slap on a yarmulke and get ready for God. Key to unlock your faith.

Wandering The Fergana Valley

Road trips are fun. Especially if there are cool things to see. Which is the point of road trips.

Holy Brutalist, Socialist Monument! Right outside the city of Fergana (which, duh, is in the Fergana Valley of Uzbekistan) sits this impressive salute to the Great Patriotic War, otherwise known as World War II. Soviet built, full of their iconic themes of communism and military might.

Soldiers in sync under the former USSR flag. The identifying marks of the flag have been chipped away. Progress. 1941, a big year! A beleaguered yet proud citizenry gathered together. Big anvil for strength.

Moving on to the city of Kokand, visiting the famous Juma mosque and madrasa complex. Central minaret.

The highlight is the extensive portico with hand-carved, wood columns, some original ones on display. Nice capitals. Looking up, wood ceilings of the portico full of colorful designs.

You Are Now Entering An Important City. Back to Fergana, the big gate over the highway lets you know something special is ahead.