A Brief History
Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in the world and Uzbekistan’s most iconic destination. With a history spanning more than 2,700 years, it predates many European capitals and is roughly the same age as Rome and Athens.
The city was founded on the ancient hills of Afrasiab and is mentioned in the Avesta, the sacred scripture of Zoroastrianism. In 329 BCE, Samarkand was conquered by Alexander the Great. Over the following centuries, its location along the Silk Road transformed it into one of the great crossroads of Eurasia, where merchants, scholars, and travelers from across the known world exchanged goods, ideas, and cultures.
In 712 CE, Samarkand was conquered by Arab armies and became one of the leading centers of the Islamic world. During the 9th and 10th centuries, the city flourished under the Samanids and Karakhanids. It eventually grew into a prosperous hub of trade, learning, and craftsmanship. This golden age came to an end in 1220 when the armies of Genghis Khan devastated the city.
Yet Samarkand's greatest era was still to come. In the late 14th century, the conqueror Amir Timur (Tamerlane) chose the city as the capital of his empire. He brought architects, craftsmen, and artists from across his territories to make Samarkand the most magnificent city in the world. Many of the city’s most famous monuments date from this period.
In later centuries, Samarkand became part of the Bukhara Khanate before being incorporated into the Russian Empire and later the Soviet Union. Despite centuries of political change, the city has preserved its unique character and historical legacy.
Today, the historic center of Samarkand is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular architectural treasures in Central Asia.
Why Visit Samarkand?
Few cities can rival Samarkand when it comes to the grandeur and beauty of Islamic architecture. Blue domes, intricate mosaics, and centuries of history create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.
The city's most famous landmark is Registan Square. Three monumental madrasas surround the square, their facades covered with tilework and geometric patterns. The square is particularly magical after sunset, when the buildings are illuminated against the night sky.
Another must-see attraction is the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Amir Timur. Inside, you’ll see a richly decorated interior featuring gilded ornamentation, intricate patterns, and remarkable jade tombstones.
No visit to Samarkand is complete without exploring Shah-i-Zinda. It’s an avenue of mausoleums famous for its breathtaking collection of blue-tiled facades and intricate majolica decorations. Many visitors consider it the most beautiful site in the city.
Other highlights include:
- Bibi-Khanym Mosque – one of the largest mosques of the medieval world.
- Ulugh Beg Observatory – a remarkable scientific monument where groundbreaking astronomical observations were conducted in the 15th century.
- Siab Bazaar – a traditional market filled with dried fruits, spices, nuts, fresh produce, and local sweets.
Yet Samarkand is far more than a collection of famous monuments. If your schedule allows, venture beyond the main tourist attractions. Wander through the narrow streets of the old city, stop at a traditional teahouse frequented by locals, or visit small family-run craft workshops. Souvenirs found in these neighborhoods are often more authentic and more affordable than those sold near the major tourist sites.
And, like the rest of Uzbekistan, Samarkand is renowned for its hospitality. Visitors are often surprised by how willing locals are to offer directions, share recommendations, or simply strike up a friendly conversation. For many travelers, these encounters become some of the most memorable parts of their journey.
Useful Travel Tips
- The best times to visit Samarkand are spring (mid-March to late May) and autumn (early September to early November), when temperatures are pleasant. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures frequently exceeding 40°C (104°F).
- The most convenient way to travel from Tashkent to Samarkand is aboard the high-speed Afrosiyob train. The journey takes approximately two and a half hours. Tickets often sell out well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, so early booking is highly recommended. Regular trains are also available. They are slower but more affordable, and tickets are usually available closer to the departure date.
- When exploring the city's religious sites, it is a good idea to carry a pair of socks. Visitors are often required to remove their shoes before entering mosques and certain sacred buildings. Women may also wish to bring a headscarf for visits to religious monuments.
- Before traveling, it is worth checking whether any major international summits or official events are scheduled in the city. During certain high-profile gatherings, access to the city by car may be temporarily restricted.
- Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy. Be sure to try Samarkand-style plov, traditional Uzbek bread, kebabs, and local sweets. The city's version of plov is particularly famous and differs noticeably from those served in other regions of the country.
- For the best culinary experience, consider dining in restaurants and cafés popular with local residents rather than those located beside major tourist attractions. The food is often more authentic, the atmosphere more genuine, and the prices more reasonable.
- Finally, don't be shy about bargaining at markets. Negotiating prices is a long-standing tradition in Uzbekistan and remains an essential part of the shopping experience.