The capital of this region, Bokhara, had attained a very considerable degree of civilization, and was renowned for its university, where the Mohammedan youth, of noble families, were educated.

The city, after an unavailing attempt at defense, was compelled to capitulate.

The elders of the metropolis brought the keys and laid them at the feet of the conqueror.

Genghis Khan rode contemptuously on horseback into the sacred mosque, and seizing the Alcoran from the altar, threw it upon the floor and trampled it beneath the hoofs of his steed.

The whole city was inhumanly reduced to ashes.
From Bokhara he advanced to Samarcande.