I thought I was done exploring the Samarkand History Museum and was making my way out the grounds when the staff started waving me to goto the side building. Another lady darted across the grounds with a bunch of keys and quickly opened the door for me and turned on the lights.

I was surprised that this was a Jewish History Museum as there was no signage to indicate one was here. My guide did mention some records and photos but I didnt know it was an actual museum.

The front entrance has a traditional hut built during Passover (I forget the name) and a staircase leading up into the exhibition. There is also a plague showing the Museum is funded by American Jews.

The staircase also has some historical photos of Jews and families in traditional clothing.

Again all the rooms were locked and lights switched off so the attendant had to rush before me to unlock the doors and switch on the lights.

On the upper floor landing you are actually in the upper balcony of a Synagogue. You can see inside all the original architecture, arches, and detailed coloured plasterwork, although the contents have all been removed.

There are also stained glass windows which can be seen from outside

The main exhibition wing had many historical photos arranged around a recreated early 20th Century living room. Some of the photos showed group gatherings, family scenes, and daily life.

Other artefacts included Torah Scrolls, Hebrew texts, and traditional robes. Finally there was a section with traditional instruments, copies of music recordings, and childrens books.

It was quite a surprising morning visiting three religious buildings, a Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Polish Church, and now a Jewish Synagogue. I was told later this was the home of a wealthy person who was made to hand it over during Soviet times.

It was very interesting exploring the religious and multi-ethnic diversity that exists in Samarkand and often overlooked in favour of the more famous historical sites.

I almost left without visiting this site so was glad the staff rushed over to stop me. Both museums were well worth the entrance price and an enriching contrast to any sightseeing tour of Samarkand

This is also more evidence of a thriving Jewish community living peacefully with Muslims for generations. (See also Bukhara Synagogue and Jewish Cemetary http://blog.travelpod.com/travel-blog-e ntries/londone7/23/1363119250/tpod.html )