«Hudjum» silk carpet factory

A visit to the Badghisi workshop unfolds as an educational odyssey, showcasing the entire spectrum of carpet creation. From the cultivation of silken threads to the alchemy of natural vegetable dyes, the workshop is a bastion of age-old techniques. Here, madder roots, walnut husks, onion peels, and pomegranate rinds transform into vibrant dyes that breathe life into each fabric.

Ascending to the weaving sanctum, one is greeted by a symphony of looms operated by a cadre of female artisans. These custodians of a nomadic legacy weave more than just carpets; they weave stories, traditions, and a way of life into each knot and weave.

The workshop’s showroom is a treasure trove where the fruits of this labor are displayed. Carpets, kilims, and suzanis, each a masterpiece of pattern and hue, invite onlookers into a world where the Oriental mystique is tangible. The Badghisi family, ever gracious hosts, share their knowledge freely, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty without the shadow of commerce looming.

The Badghisi workshop is not just a center of craftsmanship but also a model of ethical employment. With comprehensive training, fair hours, and assured leave, the workshop ensures that its artisans’ welfare is paramount. For women who choose to weave the threads of their lives around their families, the opportunity to embroider suzanis from the comfort of their homes is a testament to the workshop’s adaptability and respect for tradition.

Nestled 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. For those who seek to unravel the mysteries of carpet weaving and to connect with the rich tapestry of history that is Samarkand, a visit to this workshop is an essential chapter in the story of their travels.