Bukharan Jews in Samarkand

Mikhail Mikhailovich Abramov (1843–1917) was an outstanding historian and writer from Samarkand who devoted his life to studying the history of Bukharan Jews in the city. His works became the foundation for understanding the role of this community in the cultural and economic life of Samarkand.

In his book “Bukharan Jews in Samarkand (1843–1917)”, Abramov provides a detailed description of the formation of the Jewish quarter Guzari Dzhuguton in 1843, when 31 families acquired land to build houses and communal buildings. Over time, the quarter expanded, and by 1863 around 300 Jewish families were living there.

Abramov also highlights the high level of economic activity among Bukharan Jews. By 1892, 213 families — about 1,100 people — were engaged in trade, with 25 families recording an annual turnover exceeding one million rubles. This accounted for 71.7% of the community’s total turnover. During that period, Samarkand was a major trade hub, and the Bukharan Jews played a crucial role in the region’s economy.

By the early 20th century, Samarkand was home to more than 30 synagogues, as well as schools, theaters, and cultural centers where teaching was conducted in the Bukharan-Jewish language. This reflects the community’s vibrant cultural life and its dedication to preserving traditions and language.

Abramov’s works remain an essential source for studying the history of Bukharan Jews in Samarkand and their contribution to the city’s development. His research helps us understand how this community preserved its identity while enriching the cultural and economic heritage of the region