Pumpkin Museum
About This Museum
Tucked away on a quiet street in Tashkent, the Pumpkin Museum is one of Uzbekistan's most charming and unexpected cultural gems. It began as the private passion of a local artist, Karim Zakirov, who was so captivated by the humble gourd that he spent decades transforming it into high art. The museum feels more like a visit to an eccentric, brilliant friend's home than a formal institution. You'll find yourself smiling as you wander through rooms where pumpkins are reimagined in every conceivable form, from intricate carvings to whimsical sculptures.
Collection Highlights
The heart of the collection is Zakirov's own work, featuring pumpkins carved with astoundingly delicate patterns that look like lace. Other exhibits showcase the vegetable in its many roles: as a dried vessel for centuries of Central Asian tradition, a canvas for vibrant paintings, and even the star of surrealist installations where giant gourd sculptures take center stage.
Visitor Information
It's a small, intimate place, so you don't need more than an hour. The staff are incredibly passionate and often share personal stories about the artist and his process. Just double-check opening times before you go, as it operates more on enthusiast's hours than a rigid corporate schedule.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a modest, traditional Uzbek house with whitewashed walls and a simple facade that gives no hint of the wonders inside.
Contact & Location
Address: Музей тыквы, Sultoniya ko'chasi, Beshkapa mahallasi, Feruza, Mirzo Ulug‘bek Tumani, Toshkent, 100000, Oʻzbekiston
Phone: +998 71 261 47 43
