Welcome to the Jewel of Uzbekistan: Samarkand! A guide to the City's History and Must-See Places.

A painting by 16-year-old Samira Idrisova, a student at the "Sharifa Art" studio, capturing a visionary blend of ancient and future Samarkand.

A Brief History of Samarkand

Uzbekistan is a country of majestic architecture and ancient traditions that have preserved its unique heritage. This heritage is represented in such cities as Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva and Tashkent. Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in the world, making it timeless in its essence. The territory of Samarkand is divided into four parts. This makes it unique among other cities of Uzbekistan.

The first region is the ancient sector, known as Afrasiab. The age of Samarkand is taken from this area.

The second region is the historical Markand area, developed during the 14th-16th centuries. This is the era of the Timurids. It is here that the historical territory of Samarkand was formed. The main attractions that attract tourists are situated in the region of Timurid era . Samarkand became a hub of science and culture, serving as the capital for the formidable Timur. He envisioned a city filled with magnificent mosques, madrasas, and breathtaking monuments.

Next is the European region of Samarkand, associated with events in 1865, when the territory of Central Asia was under the patronage of Tsarist Russia. Walking through this territory, you can still see the houses of governors-general, the former building of the women's gymnasium and other architectural monuments from this era.

And finally, modern Samarkand has contemporary buildings that continue to be built here to this day.

Today, the city is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving its historical beauty while adapting to modern tourism. An intereting fact about Samarkand, is that prominent blue domes cannot be found anywhere else in Uzbekistan except Samarkand. Interestingly, the domes of Gur-Amir are divided into 64 facets based on the years of Prophet Muhammad's life.

Must-See Places in Samarkand

The best time to visit Samarkand is the spring (April to early June) or autumn (September to early November). The weather is comfortable, making it easy to explore the city's stunning landmarks like Registan Square and Shah-i-Zinda. Spring brings a hue of colors to the city, while autumn adds a golden charm to the surroundings, creating the perfect backdrop for your visit.

Registan Square

A breathtaking square surrounded by three beautifully decorated madrasahs. It’s the heart of Samarkand and a symbol of the city’s history and architecture.

Visiting this site during sunset is awe insipiring. The vibrant mosaics reflecting the golden light create a mesmerizing ambiance, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.

Gur-Amir

The stunning blue-domed tomb of Tamerlane and his family is not only a historical gem but also one of the most serene places to reflect on the city’s past. There you can see the tomb of the main conqueror in Uzbekistan, as well as ancient remains from the old Samarkand and explore the lands of Timur.

Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble

This is a sacred site with colourful, beautifully decorated tombs that highlight the religious beliefs of the people buried there. It is said to be the burial place of Qusam ibn Abbas. Some of the tombs remain unidentified, which creates a sense of fascination and mystery.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque

Constructed in the 15th century, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque was once among the world's largest mosques, with unique arches and delicate carvings. Named after Timur's beloved wife, its sheer size commands attention.

It’s an iconic symbol of love and one of the most photographed spots in the city. Near the mosque there ia a tomb of Bibi-Khanym herself, as well as her mother and daughter.

The Ulugh Beg Observatory

The Ulugh Beg Observatory is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and history. Built in the 15th century, it was established by Ulugh Beg, a renowned astronomer. His work laid the foundation for modern astronomy, making significant advances that were ahead of his time.

The Silk Road Samarkand Museum

A visit to the Silk Road Samarkand Museum offers rich insights into the city’s historic trade routes. The museum features various artefacts, including textiles, ceramics, and coins, showcasing the diverse cultures that passed through Samarkand.

Optimal Times to Experience Samarkand

With temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, spring and fall are the ideal seasons to explore Samarkand. While fall brings pleasant weather and fewer tourists, spring brings bright blossoms and milder temperatures. In July and August, however, summer temperatures can reach above 40°C. No matter when you visit, the spectacular colours, sounds, and history of Samarkand will make your trip unforgettable