Sardoba Malik and Rabat-i Malik Caravanserai

Rabat-i Malik, whose name is usually translated as «Tsarskaya Krepost», was built in the 11th century. Initially, the complex was a fortified residence of the Karakhanids — a dynasty that ruled a significant part of Maverannahr in the 11th–12th centuries.

After the Mongol conquest, the purpose of the complex changed. From the 13th century to the beginning of the 18th century, Rabat-i Malik was used as a caravanserai on an important trade route. The complex included living quarters, a kitchen, a bathhouse, a mosque and stables. Today, the archaeological remains of the structure and the monumental entrance portal, also known as «Vorota Bukhary», have survived.

Opposite is Sardoba Malik — a medieval structure for storing water. It was built in the 11th century to supply Rabat-i Malik with water. The depth of the reservoir was about 13 m, and the height of the dome was about 12 m. Water came from the Zarafshan via an underground channel.