Discover Uzbekistan: A traveller’s guide to the cultural treasures and historical wonders of Central Asia
Uzbekistan, a country with a fascinating history, vibrant architecture and a unique culture, has increasingly established itself as a sought-after tourist destination. The country’s historic cities, including Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva and Tashkent, are rich in architectural treasures and cultural heritage. Every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world flock to explore these jewels.
Samarkand: the pearl of the Orient
Samarkand, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Orient”, is a city with over 2,500 years of history behind it. It was once an important centre of the Silk Road and is home to some of the most magnificent architectural masterpieces of the Islamic world. The Registan Platform, an ensemble of three magnificent madrasas (Islamic schools), is undoubtedly one of the most impressive architectural highlights. Here, the magnificent domes and minarets are reflected in the clear waters of the pools, while ornate mosaics and calligraphy adorn the walls.
No less impressive is the majestic Bibi-Khanum Mosque, once one of the largest and most magnificent mosques in the Islamic world. Samarkand is also the final resting place of Timur the Great, whose mausoleum-like tomb, the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, is another of the city’s architectural jewels.
Bukhara: the city of science
Bukhara, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, is known for its role as a centre of Islamic learning and science. The old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with beautifully decorated madrasas, mosques and mausoleums. The Poi-Kalyan ensemble, consisting of the Kalyan Mosque and the Kalyan Minaret, dominates the old town and offers a breathtaking view over the city.
Another highlight is the Samanid Mausoleum, one of the oldest surviving buildings in Bukhara and a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture. The city is also home to the famous Lab-i Hauz ensemble, a square with an ancient pond surrounded by magnificent buildings and a favourite meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
Khiva: the oasis in the desert
Khiva, an ancient oasis in the Khwarezm region, is a city that seems to have fallen out of time. Surrounded by metre-high walls that once served as a defence against conquerors, the old town of Khiva is a living open-air museum. Ichon-Qala, the inner fortified city, is home to a wealth of historical treasures, including the Kalta Minor Minaret and the Kunya Ark fortress complex.
The Pakhlavan Mahmud Mausoleum, dedicated to the legendary poet and Sufi saint, attracts believers and history buffs alike. The atmosphere of Khiva is unique, and a stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town is like travelling back in time.
Tashkent: the modern metropolis
Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a fascinating mix of old and new. While the city has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries, it has nevertheless retained its own unique identity. Modern skyscrapers stand alongside magnificent mosques and Soviet buildings.
The Hast Imam Mosque, the Chorsu Bazaar and Amir Temur Square are just some of the city’s highlights. Tashkent is also a cultural centre, with a variety of theatres, museums and galleries that bring the rich history and culture of Uzbekistan to life.
The tourist infrastructure of Uzbekistan
In recent years, the government of Uzbekistan has made considerable efforts to improve the country’s tourism infrastructure. The introduction of modern high-speed trains such as the Afrosiyob has made it easier to reach the historic cities and increased convenience for tourists.
In addition, thousands of kilometres of modern motorways have been built and reconstructed to facilitate travel within the country. Infrastructure facilities along these motorways, including campsites, petrol stations and restaurants, help to further promote tourism in Uzbekistan.
