Rishtan

Rishtan is a small town in the Fergana Valley, 50 km from Fergana. It is an Uzbek town famous for its ceramics since ancient times. And this is no coincidence, as there are rich deposits of red clay as well as minerals and unusual vegetation that are used as natural dyes.

The artisans of Rishtan are known all over the world for their special ceramic production technology. Their work is characterised by its blue-green hues that glow beautifully in the sun. Each piece is unique. Practically every third family in Rishtan is involved in pottery in one form or another – some say there are 250 artisans working here.

As recently as 1970, there was a pottery factory in the town, but it closed. Today, Rishtan is home to a thriving craft industry. Rishtan ceramics can be seen at fairs and markets all over Uzbekistan, but if you want to buy them first hand, watch the production process or even make a plate or pot yourself, head to this cosy little town in the south of the Fergana Valley.