“Hudjum” silk carpet factory

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Samarkand silk carpet factory

Silk carpet factory "Hudjum", Samarkand

Nestled in the historic city of Samarkand, the heart of the ancient Silk Road, the “Silk Carpets of Samarkand-Bukhara” workshop stands as a testament to the enduring artistry of Central Asia. Established in 1992, this workshop is more than a factory—it’s a sanctuary where the lost traditions of carpet weaving from Uzbekistan and its neighboring regions, such as Afghanistan and Turkmenistan, are lovingly revived.

At the helm of this centuries-old craft is the Badghisi family, whose lineage of master weavers has preserved the art of carpet making through generations. Haji Mohammad Ewaz Badghisi, a Turkmen master weaver whose life spans over a century, leads this legacy. His journey, marked by resilience, saw the family relocate to Afghanistan during the Soviet era, only to return to Uzbekistan in 1992 amidst political upheaval. Today, his descendants, Abdullah and Zainab, continue the family’s rich heritage, infusing the workshop with their expertise, passion, and a touch of humor that makes every visit memorable.

The workshop employs 400 artisans, yet it defies the label of a factory, as every step—from dyeing threads to weaving intricate masterpieces—is meticulously executed by hand. A handmade carpet is not just a decorative item; it is a functional work of art, blending aesthetic beauty with practical utility. Crafting a single carpet requires months of painstaking labor and tens of thousands of silkworm cocoons.

The process begins with extracting silk from steamed cocoons and spinning it into fine threads. These threads are then dyed in vast vats using natural organic dyes sourced from leaves, roots, flowers, fruit peels, minerals, and even insects. The colors chosen are deeply symbolic, reflecting the cultural heritage of the region. In Turkic carpets, red dominates, symbolizing wealth, joy, and happiness. Green represents the sky, blue embodies nobility and grandeur, and yellow is believed to ward off evil spirits.

The workshop produces carpets featuring both timeless Eastern designs and original, custom patterns. There is also a growing demand for carpets woven as replicas of famous paintings, biblical scenes, landscapes, portraits, and photographs. The artisans’ ability to translate these intricate designs into woven masterpieces with photographic precision is nothing short of extraordinary.

Beyond silk carpets, the workshop also crafts woolen carpets and those combining wool and cotton threads. Visitors are invited to witness the entire production process, from dyeing to weaving, and to explore a vast collection of finished carpets. Each piece is a lifelong treasure, ready to bring warmth and beauty to any home. Tourists can also commission custom carpets, tailored to their preferred designs and dimensions.

The Badghisi workshop is not only a center of craftsmanship but also a model of ethical employment. With comprehensive training, fair working hours, and assured leave, the workshop ensures the welfare of its artisans. For women who choose to balance their craft with family life, the opportunity to embroider suzanis from the comfort of their homes is a testament to the workshop’s adaptability and respect for tradition.

Located near the architectural wonders of Shahi Zinda and Bibi-Khanum Mosque at 12A Hujum Street, the Badghisi Family Workshop is a cornerstone of Samarkand’s cultural landscape. It is more than a place of production—it is a living museum of craftsmanship, where ancient traditions are preserved and celebrated. Every carpet tells a story, woven with skill, patience, and a profound connection to the region’s cultural legacy.

Samarkand's Registan square

Samarkand city tour

From$90
6 Hours

Stroll through Shahi-Zinda
Explore Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Discover Registan Square grandeur
Shop at Siab Bazaar
Taste local traditional bread

Discover the enchanting city of Samarkand with our one-day tour. Visit iconic landmarks like Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda, and the stunning Bibi-Khanym Mosque. Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of this ancient Silk Road city.
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