Bukhara, Uzbekistan

This impressive medressa with two blue domes stands opposite the Kalon Mosque. Founded in the 16th century, it was a working seminary until its closure in 1920. Stalin reopened it in 1944.

The 12th-century brick Kalon Minaret is one of the most impressive monuments in Bukhara and it can be climbed for fine views. Next to it is the 16th-century Kalon Mosque, built on the site of an earlier mosque.

Its name means "four minarets," but this interesting little building with four dome-topped towers was actually a gatehouse of a medressa.

This small, elegant 10th-century mausoleum is one of Bukhara's oldest monuments. Built for the founder of the Samanid dynasty, its delicate terracotta brickwork disguises 2m-thick walls that have neve

Nicknamed the "Forty Pillars Mosque" (its porch has 20 slender columns, which reflect in the adjacent pool), the unique Bolo Hauz Mosque in Bukhara was built in 1712.