Samarkand, Uzbekistan

History

Samarkand is a historic city located in east-central Uzbekistan and is considered one of the oldest settlements in Central Asia. Known as Maracanda in the 4th century BCE, it once served as the capital of Sogdiana before being captured by Alexander the Great in 329 BCE.

Over centuries, Samarkand came under the rule of the Central Asian Turks (6th century CE), the Arabs (8th century), the Samanids (9th–10th centuries), and several Turkic dynasties in the 11th–13th centuries.

In the early 13th century, it was annexed by the Khwārezm-Shāh dynasty but was destroyed by Genghis Khan in 1220.

After rebelling against Mongol control in 1365, the city rose to prominence again as the capital of Timur’s empire — the leading economic and cultural hub of Central Asia.

In 1500, Samarkand was taken over by the Uzbeks and became part of the Bukhara Khanate. By the 18th century, it declined and was uninhabited for decades.

Its revival began in 1887 as a provincial capital of the Russian Empire, later becoming a major railway center.

From 1924 to 1936, Samarkand was the capital of the Uzbek SSR. Today, it blends its medieval core with modern Russian colonial-era districts.

Cultural Landmarks

Registan Square

• The heart of Samarkand — an ensemble of three madrasas forming the most iconic sight of Uzbekistan.
• Famous for massive portals, intricate tiles, and majestic domes.
• A must-see photo spot, especially at golden hour.

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BibiKhanym Mosque

• Built in the early 15th century under Timur — one of the largest Islamic buildings of its time.
• Impressive both in scale and architectural detail, perfect for history lovers.

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Shahi-Zinda Necropolis

• A magnificent avenue of mausoleums decorated with turquoise tiles.
• One of the most photogenic places in Central Asia.
• The name means 'The Living King' — a major spiritual site.

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Gur-Emir Mausoleum

• The resting place of Timur (Tamerlane) and his descendants.
• A masterpiece of Timurid architecture.
• Famous for its massive blue dome and richly decorated interior.

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Shopping & Leisure

Siab Bazaar

• The largest local market in Samarkand.
• A great place to experience everyday Uzbek life.
• Fresh fruits, spices, dried fruits, bread, handicrafts, and textiles.
• An essential stop to feel real Uzbek culture beyond monuments.

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City Transport

Public Transport in Samarkand

Samarkand has buses, taxis, and a newly restored tram system.

• Buses – widely used by locals, very affordable.
• Taxis – Yandex Go & MyTaxi are available and convenient.

Tram System

• Samarkand Tram was reopened on April 15, 2017.
• The previous system (1947–1973) closed before being revived by presidential order.
• A clean and efficient way to move around the city.

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