WNAM MONITORING: Uzbekistan’s ongoing efforts to develop tourism and preserve national heritage are yielding tangible results. A vivid example is the official granting of tourism mahalla status to M. Topvoldiyev mahalla, located in Rishtan district.
This recognition became possible due to the area’s rich historical and cultural heritage, customs, national values, and unique natural beauty, significantly expanding its potential.
To attend the ceremony dedicated to the official announcement of the mahalla’s new status, a delegation led by the President of the World Crafts Council, Saad Al-Qaddumi, visited the area. In keeping with tradition, the guests were welcomed with bread and salt.
Speakers at the ceremony highlighted the contribution of Rishtan’s folk artisans to the development of tourism and craftsmanship in the country. M. Topvoldiyev mahalla was awarded a special “Tourism Mahalla” certificate.
To ensure quality service for visitors, a sanitation and hygiene facility, as well as a tourist information center, have been established in the mahalla. The area also features the International Ceramics Center, a teahouse, a hotel, the “Begoim” restaurant, and numerous complexes offering various services. Tourists can enjoy shopping, reading, watching their favorite films, engaging in cultural activities, and attending artistic performances organized by the local House of Culture. All these offerings are expected to attract even more guests to the tourism mahalla.
The pottery art of Rishtan boasts a history of over 800 years. The region’s hand-painted ceramics are renowned worldwide. Hundreds of artisans working in the mahalla pass down the secrets of their craft to future generations.
The delegation of the World Crafts Council visited several home-based pottery workshops in Rishtan and thoroughly studied their operations.
“The main purpose of our visit to Uzbekistan, and specifically to Rishtan, was to deeply explore aspects such as the history of pottery, traditions, and the work of the artisans. We will present this information at the Council’s meeting, as Rishtan has already earned a prominent place on the global crafts stage and truly deserves to be granted the status of a ‘City of Craftsmen’”, said Saad Al-Qaddumi.
