View of summer Bakhchysarai
Today, the only reminder of the moments of Bakhchysarai's former glory is the small (by current standards) Khansaray Palace – the former residence of the Giray dynasty – the rulers of the Tatar tribe.
Several centuries ago, a full-flowing river flowed within the steppe town, thanks to which Bakhchysarai was buried in greenery, but the river dried up and turned into a thin stream. The city began to resemble a small, unremarkable steppe village. Farming here makes no sense; plants require a large amount of water, and it is delivered to Bakhchysarai in the old-fashioned way – in large barrels on carts and trucks.
Thousands of tourists come to Bakhchysarai every year. Despite the small size of the Khan's palace, many strive to visit its walls and feel the breath of history.
Khansaray is divided into two halves, one of which once belonged to men, the second to women. A feature of the Tatar mentality was the impossibility for men to be on the women's half; this was allowed only to the khan and the kitchen worker – a little boy under the age of seven.
The halls of the palace are decorated with beautiful mosaics, the walls and floors are covered with excellent hand-made carpets.
The pearl of Khansaray can be considered the 'Fountain of Tears', to which the great Russian writer Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin dedicated his work of the same name. A romantic love story is connected with the fountain, which can be heard by visiting this unique place.
Having decided to take a trip to Bakhchysarai, you can stay in the city for several days. The locals are a very hospitable people; they gladly rent out rooms to tourists for a very moderate fee. There is no need to be afraid of the steppe heat; you can find accommodation with modern household humidifiers installed.
In Bakhchysarai there is a special tasting room where you can try the most delicious Crimean wines. Also, the locals prepare excellent Tatar dishes and sweet honey baklava.
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