Trade domes were very popular in the East. This was especially true if the trade and craftsmanship were developed.
Hot Asian climate forced traders to make the canopies of fabric, straw or wood. The richer cities made canopies from wood. However, the most solid dome buildings were from burnt bricks. But their construction was very expensive. The wood for firing, in countries with dry weather, was not enough and cost almost a fortune.
Hot Asian climate forced traders to make the canopies of fabric, straw or wood. The richer cities made canopies from wood. But the most solid dome buildings were from burnt bricks. But their construction was very expensive. The bricks in countries where there was not enough wood for firing, cost almost a fortune.
Only rich people could afford construction of such structures. Mainly successful traders, prominent ministers and the rulers could do it.
The dome brought huge profit to city budget. Traders and merchants paid for their places each day. As Samarkand was on Great Silk Road, many nationalities lived in the city. Each nation had own type of hat. It helped to determine birth-place of person, his status and religion. If the people want to buy a hat, they went to Chorsu.
Architecture
Chorsu Trade Dome is located behind Sherdor Madrasah in modern Tashkent street. It was constructed in the 15th century at crossroads, leading to Shakhrisabz, Bukhara and Tashkent. It was reconstructed in the beginning of 18th century. To build its hexagonal dome, burnt bricks from Bibi Khanum mosque, which laid in ruins at that time, were used.
In the 20th century, arch was rebuilt and new foundation was laid. Later, the dome was reconstructed. The facade was tiled. Chorsu Trade Dome was reconstructed again in 2005.
Now the Dome hosts the gallery of fine art, where you can see works of Uzbek artists and sculptors.
