The first thing that is apparent about Bukhara regardless of prior knowledge is how much of an impact religion has had on the region. From a Zoroastrian-influenced Samanid mausoleum to the copious madrasas to the old town streets of the Jewish Quarter, religion is everywhere. Both old Persian and Timurid architecture is also prevalent throughout. The old city center has kept much of its form through reconstruction and is truly a sort of time travel experience, walking through the outdoor and domed markets while music plays. Even moreso than in Samarqand, people seemed to default to Tajik when speaking (as it was the capital of a largely Persian speaking Emirate). Despite a similar prevalence of Tajik in Samarqand, it doesnt feel that way when interacting on the streets with people – only in the bazaar.