Uzbekistan is a country with ancient history and rich culture.Top 6 tourist attractions in Uzbekistan are located in Tashkent, Samarkand, Khiva, Bukhara, Shahrisabz, Ko’kan and other cities.
Tourist attractions in Uzbekistan is unique and colorful. Despite the current conditions of globalization, this country has preserved the most ancient monuments of architectural heritage, which are visited by millions of tourists from all over the world every year.
Table of Contents
TASHKENT
Tashkent has a huge list of attractions that would take several days to visit. Architectural ensembles, mosques and minarets, museums and theaters, parks and galleries. This city provides multitude of choices for visitors to experience tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
1. Tashkent television tower is the capital’s business card
The Tashkent television tower is one of the tourist attractions in Uzbekistan. Each city has its own business card. The business card of Tashkent is visible from afar, it is looked at from the bottom up. This is the Tashkent TV tower – one of the most beautiful and high TV towers in Central Asia, making it a prime example of the tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
The first 180-meter telecenter built in 1957 could not fully cover the 4 million inhabitants of the capital and Tashkent region. It was also necessary to reach remote mountainous areas with radio and television transmissions, that also highlights the importance of this structure among the tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.In 1960, television and radio took a strong place in the cultural life of Uzbekistan. Work on the preparation of a new TV tower project has started in a short period of time. The task of the specialists was to build the tallest building in Central Asia and solve all the tasks.
The project was carefully thought out and tested, as it was the first time such a tall structure had been built, adding to the list of tourist attractions in Uzbekistan. All necessary materials were studied, technological requirements and standards were followed, steel equipment was brought from Germany. And, finally, in 1978, the construction of a new TV tower began, and it took 6 years to build it.Semashko Yu.P., Terziyev-Sarukov NG became the authors of the project, and Morozov EP and Musheyev MD became the designers. Construction work was carried out by specialists of the “Visotstroy” trust.
The towers of the TV tower are raised from a depth of 11 meters, resting on a non-bonded reinforced concrete foundation, creating a system capable of maintaining a very high balance. This feat of engineering greatly enhances tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
The tower was built using a special crane capable of lifting a load of 25 tons to a height of 240 meters. The tower is equipped with three high-speed Swiss elevators. On January 15, 1985, the national flag began to fly at the highest point of the building. This historical moment further established it as one of the major tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
The height of the TV tower is 375 meters, its long spear-like tip can be seen from any point of the city. The total weight of the structure exceeds 6,000 tons. It is equipped with modern techniques and equipment for radio and television transmissions. Has more than ten workshops of TV and radio stations in Tashkent region. This comprehensive facility is an essential part of the tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
The lobby of the TV tower is decorated with a mosaic panel and models of the world’s tallest towers. Among them, the Tashkent TV tower took the proud 10th place, putting it among the top tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
Anyone who wants can climb to the observation deck of the tower and watch the amazing view of the city from a height of 110 meters, where birds fly. There is also a “Koinot” restaurant, which has a special rotating platform. The restaurant has two halls: “Zangori” in national style and “Kizil” in European style. Out of all the tourist attractions in Uzbekistan, dining here is a unique experience.
At night, the tower is illuminated by thousands of lights, and this nocturnal display solidifies its standing as one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.Tashkent television tower is an iconic symbol of technological enhancement and human labor and this is the most prominent tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
2. “Chorsu” eastern market is another place of tourist attractions in uzbekistan
Another main tourist attractions in Uzbekistan is the huge Chorsu market – is located in the central square “Eski Jova” in the heart of the old city. It has been popular since the Middle Ages. Everyone who comes to this market will fall into oriental fairy tales. The beauty of rastas, the abundance of products, wide rows, polite sellers… The whole history of Uzbekistan is embodied here.
You won’t be able to list the variety of products: hats and tunics, scarves made of national fabrics, ceramics and ceramics, handmade souvenirs, gifts, oriental sweets, spices, fruits, vegetables and many other products. Undoubtedly, the Chorsu market is most noticeable tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
This large bazaar was established around the 10th century, and is located at the intersection of four shopping streets, one of the important centers of the Great Silk Road. Here trade was conducted throughout the year and mixed with different cultures. Foreign traders, caravans, traders, artisans, wealthy farmers and ordinary workers could be seen on the trade routes, further making the market as one of the top tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
The market consists of several pavilions under blue domes: a food row, a craft row, a row selling carpets, blankets and mattresses, and a row of jewelry and handicrafts. One of the most beloved attractions in Uzbekistan, each sector adds to the lively atmosphere.
A special highlight is the food pavilion under the big blue dome. It is divided according to the types of products. There is no doubt that you will not be indifferent to a wide range of dairy products, among them you should definitely try yogurt, kurt (a dry yogurt product, a type of local cheese), and suzma. This variation enhances the attractiveness of the Chorsu market, which is one of the prime tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
The variety of dry fruits will delight your eyes. It is raisins, pickles, nuts, pickles, peanuts dipped in khamish and sesame. Oriental sweets – novvot, parvarda, pashmak, holva, kozinaki . You will not be able to pass by the rainbow of spices and aromatic herbs: cinnamon, saffron, black and red pepper, nutmeg, peppercorns, cumin, coriander, sedana, saffron, dried vegetables. This wide range of options is a major lure for tourists, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
Near the food pavilion there are rows where you can try national Uzbek dishes. As you approach the rastas, you can smell the aroma of pilaf, kebabs, and somsa from afar. Here you will find norin (with cold ugra soup), gazi (horse meat sausage), gomma, hasip (homemade sausage), fried fish, lady and manti, pea soup ( a dish made of beef and peas), lamb ribs are offered. Even if you don’t want to eat, you can’t resist Uzbek traditional dishes. The dishes can be tasted in the coffee shop itself, with freshly cut obi bread from the oven. This culinary experience promote the market’s stander as delightful tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
“Chorsu” market is a piece of history echoing through thousands of years.
3. Tashkent Metro
If you visit the capital of Uzbekistan, be sure to use the Tashkent metro. It is one of the main tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
Each station of the Tashkent metro is a masterpiece of architecture and art of different masters, a unique art gallery, which will take you on a unique journey into the history of the peoples of Uzbekistan! Traditional patterns at stations and wise sayings of sages, pictures of heroes, poets and thinkers, unique Shzbek mosaic and distinctive Uzbek mosaic contribute to it being one of the top tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
Chilonzor direction. Construction of the metro started in 1973, and the first Chilonzor line was opened 4 years later. Initially, it consisted of 9 stations. Later, in 1980, 3 more stations were added to it. Today, the route is 16.8 km long and runs from the southwest of the city through the center to the northeast. The Tashkent metro is one of the most interesting tourist attractions in Uzbekistan because in large part because of this line.
The direction of Uzbekistan. In 1984, 5 more underground stations of the new Uzbekistan route were put into operation. 11 stations have been opened on the 14.2 km long Uzbekistan route for 8 years. “Alisher Navoi” station is the place where the Chilanzor route passes to “Pakhtakor” station.This emphasizing its significance as a tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
Yunusabad direction. This route was opened in the years of independence – in 2001. It has 6 underground stations, 2 stations are the stations leading to another direction: “Ming Orik” – Uzbekistan route to “Oybek” station and “Yunus Rajabi” – Chilonzor route to “Amir Temur” to the ” station. This most recent expansion highlights the Tashkent metro’s importance as one of the top tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
Underground subway. Construction of the ring road began on October 1, 2017. The length of this new route is 52.1 km. Of them, 50.5 kilometers are above ground, along a 6 m high flyover, and 1.6 kilometers are underground. The new metro line will consist of 35 stations. At the moment, 7 stations of the Uzbekistan route from “Dostlik” station to “Koyliq” market and 5 stations have been opened on the new Sirgali network. The metro’s status as one of the top tourist attraction in Uzbekistan is further cemented by its development.
4. “Humo Arena” is a multifunctional ice palace
Ice and Uzbekistan may seem like incompatible concepts. However, since the beginning of 2019, after the completion of the construction of the “Humo Arena” sports and entertainment complex, it became possible to come to games and tournaments in hockey, curling, short track, figure skating. Since September 2019, regular matches of the “Higher Hockey League” championship have been held, that makes it an exciting tourists attraction in Uzbekistan.
The Ice Palace makes a great impression on a person with its size, beauty, modern architectural solutions, multifunctionality. It was built in the shape of the wings of the Humo bird of happiness. The complex meets all modern requirements for security and equipment, it has the capacity to accommodate 12,500 spectators. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Uzbekistan is this cutting-edge establishment.
5. Uzbekspocenter
Uzbekspomarkaz is the largest exhibition complex in Tashkent consisting of several pavilions. The largest and largest international and national exhibitions are held here. This is an excellent space for government and business entities to establish mutual relations, demonstrates this one of the significant tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
“Uzekspomarkaz” building is located in a large garden area. While walking there, you can enjoy modern landscape views, fresh air, beautiful nature and lake.”Japanese Garden”, “International” hotel, “Plaza” art center, “Tashkentland” cultural and recreational park are located near the center. They can be reached by metro.
6. A monument to the Shomahmudov family
There is a monument dedicated to the memory of the Shomahmudov family in one of the central squares of Tashkent – the “Friendship of Peoples” square.
This statue was opened in May 1982, and it is dedicated to the heroic courage of the Shomahmudov family, who adopted 15 children of different nationalities during the Second World War.One of the moving tourist attractions in Uzbekistan, this monument stands for compassion and togetherness.
During the years of independence, the statue was dismantled and moved several times, in particular: in April 2008, it was moved outside of Tashkent, and in the spring of 2017, it was moved to Dostlik Park in the capital. In May 2018, following the order of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the monument was returned to its original place – the “Friendship of Peoples” square ,this monument is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
7. “Jasorat” monument is a symbol of courage and heroism
In difficult moments, hundreds of thousands of people come together to support each other. A vivid example of this is the Tashkent earthquake that occurred on April 26, 1966 at 05:23 local time. This site has since become one of the significant tourist attractions in Uzbekistan, embodying the spirit of resilience.
As a result of the earthquake, hundreds of houses were destroyed. The center of Tashkent was more affected by the earthquake. More than 300,000 people were left homeless and lived in tents. Thanks to the friendly support of the Union republics, almost the entire city was reconstructed, new microdistricts were established.
In honor of this event, on May 20, 1976, the sculptor and artist Dmitry Ryabichev erected the “Courage” monument. In his artistic image, he depicted a cracked black granite cube reflecting the earthquake, on which a dial showing the hours and date of the disaster was depicted. A crack in the cube leads to an image of a family: a woman cradling her child with one hand and a man making a pushy gesture. Behind the statue there are semi-circular bas-reliefs. They depict brave people who are helping to restore the city with selfless work.
The monument “Courage” is an important landmark of the city. The main idea of the statue is friendship, determination and courage of people. It gives hope that temporary difficulties will definitely be overcome. This place is often visited by brides and grooms with flowers and guests of the capital, marking it as one of the notable tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
SAMARKAND
Those who visit Samarkand for the first time should get acquainted with the ancient architectural monuments of the city.
In the middle Ages, you can feel how much this city with its blue-domed towers and immortal monuments developed, from its unmistakable majesty that has survived to this day. Even today, this old city amazes the people of the world with its ancient history and unique monuments. We bring to your attention information about ten holy places that you should visit.
1. Registan square
This square is one of the important tourist attractions in Uzbekistan, and it is famous all over the world as an ensemble of ancient, but still fashionable urban planning. It is surrounded by three mighty mausoleum buildings, each decorated with a unique decoration. As a wonderful example of Eastern architecture, Samarkand is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
2.Gori-Amir mausoleum
Gori Amir historical monument was built at the beginning of the 15th century and is considered a great creative example of Uzbek architecture. In the past, the madrasa was built as a place of learning for the children of famous intellectuals of the city. The construction of the building, in front of which a special room was erected, was started by Muhammad Sultan, who intended to open an Islamic educational center. It stands as one of the significant tourist attractions in Samarkand,Uzbekistan.
3.Bibikhanim mosque
Amir Temur built a beautiful mausoleum, surpassing other monuments on our planet in terms of size and beauty, and presented it to his wife. It is believed that the jilvakor walls, high-rise elements of the structure, the dome of the building carved from marble stone should serve to seal the names of Amir Temur and his wife in history.This mosque is a prominent tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
4. Afrosiyab town
Afrosiyob is a large archaeological monument that tells the history of the ancient city of Samarkand. The area of the ancient city is 219 hectares. Archaeologists found that there are 11 cultural layers that overlap each other. In the modern terrain of the city, you can easily distinguish the ruins of the mighty fortress, the old defense walls, and the ruins of the canal that once brought water to the city. Afrosiyab remains one of the notable tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
5. Shrine of Hazrat David
Later, the cave of Hazrat Davud, located in Aksoy village, Nurabad district of Samarkand region, became one of the most popular tourist attractions in Uzbekistan. This cave hides very ancient and various legends, and the number of visitors to it is increasing day by day. Pilgrims who enter the cave located on the steep rock at the top of the mountain read recitations about Hazrat Dawood, who is considered the Iron Pillar, and make intentions.
6. Tomb of Imam al-Bukhari
The name of Imam al-Bukhari is famous throughout the Eastern world, and he is one of the greatest pious people. In his collection of Hadiths, he left more than 600,000 manuscripts of the sayings of the Prophet, peace and blessings of God be upon him, and the wisdom-rich events of his life. Imam al-Bukhari was a famous scholar in the field of science and culture, he was considered the Imam of Muhaddis, the Sultan of Hadith science. His tomb is a revered tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
7. Shahi Zinda mausoleum complex
It is no wonder that the Shahi Zinda mausoleum is one of the ancient relics of Samarkand city, which contains colorful tombstones. The unique feature of this historical monument is that it closely combines all the structures built during the XIV-XV centuries. These buildings were erected near the ancient city of Afrosiyob, and the street where the building is located was also called “cemetery street”. This complex is a famous tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
KHIVA
Khiva is more than 2500 years old. This is a unique museum-city. Its main attraction is the ancient inner city with houses and narrow streets, mosques and minarets, madrasahs and surrounded by 6-meter-thick walls. It is one of the most significant tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
1. Ichan Castle
Fortifications and palaces, mosques and madrasahs, mausoleums and minarets, caravanserais and bathhouses built over the centuries (ancient architectural monuments date back to the 14th century) turned Ichan-Qala into a unique city-monument, making it one of the most remarkable tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
In Khiva, the city was traditionally divided into two separate parts: Ichan Castle (literally: inner defensive circle) – the inner city (Shahristan) and Dishon Castle (outer defense circle) – outer city ( rabot). Shahristan Ichan Castle is distinguished from Dishon Castle by its thick walls, which are 10 m high and more than 2.5 km long. The walls of the Ichan fortress are depicted in many tourist souvenirs as the main attraction of Khiva.
According to archaeological data, the walls of Khiva existed as early as V-VI centuries. According to archaeologists, the remains of ancient structures around the caravanserai serve as the foundations of the walls of the Ichan fortress.
The inner city of Ichan Citadel is densely populated, so the tourist attractions in Uzbekistan located in a compact, small area. Most of the buildings in Ichan Castle have preserved their original appearance – stone-paved streets, mosques and minarets, madrasas and cells.
You can go to the city through one of four gates: Bogcha-Darvoza – north, Tash-Darvoza – south, Polvon-Darvoza – east, Ota-Darvoza – west.
Ota-Darvoza is the central entrance to the city. They were built in the 19th century. At the beginning of the 20th century, they were destroyed, and in 1975 they were restored, but it was not possible to reproduce the original appearance. To their left is the old fortress of Old Ark. Some parts of the building date back to the 5th century. To the right of the gate is the Madrasah of Muhammad Amin Khan. A little ahead is the majestic tower Kalta-Minor. Closer to the city center is the madrasa of Muhammad Rahim Khan II.
Polvon-Darvoza appeared at the beginning of the 19th century and is known as “Slaves” because it was here that the slave trade was carried out. In 1873, when Russian troops occupied Khiva Khanate, there were 10,000 slaves in the city. After passing through the Polvan-Darvoza, you can see a marble slab with the inscription “City of Khiva” and the date of construction of the gate – 1221 (Hijri) (corresponds to 1806).
Closer to Polvan-Darvoza – Tosh Havli palace and Olloquli Khan madrasa are located. In the south of the city center are the Said Olovuddin mausoleum and the Pahlavon Mahmud mausoleum, the Shergazi Khan madrasa, as well as the Islamkhoja complex. These landmarks contribute to Khiva being one of the most visited tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
2. Dishon Castle
Dishon Castle is an outer city. This tourist attractions in Uzbekistan is a network of neighborhoods around Ichan-Kala.The wall was built in 1842 to protect against enemy attacks. It took 3 years to build them. More than 200,000 people worked in their construction, and each of them worked 12 days a year for free. The length of the walls is 5.65 km, the height is more than 6 m, the thickness of the foundation is 4.6 m.
The soil was dug two kilometers north of the city. The lake that appeared later in this place is considered sacred. It was possible to enter through 10 gates: northern – Hazorasp-Darvoza, Kosh-Darvoza, Gadaylar, Gandimyan; northwest – Dashyak; west – from Angariq, Shahimar; southwest – Tozabog; south – Shikhlar; eastern – Pishkanik (Kumyaska).
Unlike Ichan Castle, which has almost preserved its appearance, only a few gates remain from the outer defensive walls.
Gandimyan-Darvoza (1842–1970) was named after a nearby village. Later the gates were demolished and a cotton gin was built in their place. In 1970, the gate was restored according to old paintings and photographs.
Hazorasp-Darvoza (XIX century) was rebuilt in 1842 from baked bricks during the construction of the walls of Dishon-Kala. They consist of two large observation towers located on the sides. At the top of the passage is an arched gallery with side railings, the top of which is decorated with kunguras.
Kosh-Darvoza (1912). There are three cylindrical towers with mosaics on the facade, two arched corridors and a traditional gallery with corbelled railings, service rooms on either side of the corridor. These features make it an essential part of the tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
3.Hayvak well
Hayvak is the oldest surviving landmark in a small courtyard near the western gate of Ota-Darvoza in Ichan Castle. It is a notable tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
According to one of the legends, Khiva was founded by Som, the son of Noah in the Bible. While traveling through the desert, he falls asleep and dreams of a fire and feels a terrible thirst. When he wakes up, he starts digging a well in the desert. And quenching his thirst, he says: “Hey wak! Hey wak!”, which means “How good” (Hey wak, Hey waa, Khiva).
There is another myth. For many centuries, the Great Silk Road passed through Central Asia. Traders stop here to rest and get energy for the next journey. After tasting the fresh water from the spring, the merchants said with pleasure: “Hey wah!” they exclaimed. The well is called Hayvak. Later, the village itself, which appeared in the middle of the endless desert around the well, received the name Khiva.
The Hayvak well is carefully preserved by the ancients to this day. During the restoration of the well, traces of very ancient stones and the remains of a domed structure, now buried with earth, were found.
4. Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasa
The architectural monument was built in 1852-1855 by the order of the ruler Mohammad Amin Khan in front of the Old Ark fortress, in the fourth year of his reign. In 1852, the construction of a magnificent minaret began, which, according to the Khan’s plan, was supposed to be taller than those in Central Asia. However, it was not completed and is now called Kalta-Minor.
Once upon a time, Muhammad Aminkhan Madrasah was one of the richest educational institutions and had many waqf lands. In addition, the office of the Supreme Council of Muslims was located in the building. Several famous people of that time studied in the madrasa, marking it as one of the distinguished tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
5.Anush Khan baths
This unique object was built in the 17th century, around 1657-1664, and is the oldest architectural monument of its kind. Bath-hospitals were built in honor of Anushkhan by order of her father, and they stand out among tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
There is an unusual legend about the life of father and son. Abulgazi Khan, one of the most prestigious rulers of Khiva, had 9 sons. Khan desperately wanted his tenth child to be a girl. However, another son will be born in the Khan’s family. However, in order not to offend his father, the child’s gender was hidden from him for many years, and he was even given the name Anush after his father’s favorite concubine, Anusha, an Armenian girl. Years pass… Abulghazi Khan is captured in one of the battles with the emir of Bukhara.
The eldest son of nine did not think about the fate of his father and decided to take advantage of this opportunity. The younger one, without hesitation, goes to the court of the emir of Bukhara to save his father in the guise of a girl. Amir laughs at the fact that a daughter has come for her father, not her sons, and agrees to Anusha’s condition that she release the prisoner unharmed if the young beauty impresses the ruler.
The emir of Bukhara had no idea that the girl could really surprise him. When Anusha sheds her first clothes, Amir sees the young man’s body and is forced to admit defeat. Abulghazi Khan himself is no less surprised than others, but he is not angry for many years of lies. Abulgazi Khan returns to Khiva with his son, and after his return, “I thought I had nine sons, but divine destiny showed me that I have only one son – Anusha.” – he says. Khan builds mosques and bathhouses in thanksgiving and names them after his loyal tenth son, Anush.
Like many buildings of the ancient world, the bathhouses were built to last for centuries and are impressive with carefully thought-out water supply, heating and drainage systems. The technologies used in construction were quite advanced for the middle of the 17th century.
Outside, you can only see the domes of the baths with holes for light, because most of them were underground to keep the heat. The interior has a spacious hallway, private dressing rooms and steam rooms.
The complex is well preserved and after 350 years it still serves as a hospital and health center. Such historical significance cements it among tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
6 Islamhoja complex
The construction of the madrasa and minaret began in 1908 at the initiative of Prime Minister Islamkhoja. The minister was an enlightened person, admired European culture and tried to reform the life of Khiva Khanate. It is one of the most prominent tourist attraction in Uzbekistan. Although the complex was built at the beginning of the 20th century, it is very similar to the architecture of the 11th and 14th centuries.
The attractiveness of the buildings is in an unprecedented contrast: next to the smallest madrasa of the city is the tallest minaret. Therefore, the tower looks huge. Initially, this architectural landmark was a kind of lighthouse that served as a destination for travelers approaching the city.
Islamic Khoja Madrasa
The madrasah consists of 42 rooms and a large domed hall. The mihrab is decorated with majolica and ganch carving, the walls are glazed and decorated with tiles.
Islam Khoja Tower
Its height is 56.6 meters, the diameter of the base of the tower is 9.5 meters. Inside there is a brick staircase leading to the landing. At one time, the tower performed several functions. It was at the same time an observation tower and a call to prayer tower, from where residents were called to the nearest square to read the decrees of the ruler.
The complex was completed in 1910, and three years later the minister was reportedly killed on the Khan’s orders while returning home from the palace. The rich history and architectural beauty make it a prime example of tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
BUKHARA
The foundation stone of Bukhara, a holy city located on the Great Silk Road, was laid in ancient times, set on fire and rebuilt. Ancient and eternal Bukhara has never lost its beauty and luxury. All of them are reflected in the sights of the city.
1.The old city of Paykent
Paykent was formed in IV-II centuries BC. It was called “the city of merchants”. He had neither a ruler nor an owner. Later, a square fort will be built in the northeast corner. In 706, the city was conquered by the Arabs. The raiders captured a rich booty consisting of many gold and silver vessels weighing a total of 150,000 gold shekels and a silver idol weighing 4,000 dirhams.
At the end of the 8th century and the beginning of the 9th century, craft houses and military camps (rabots) of fighters for religion appeared outside the fortress walls. Starting from the 9th century, Paykent becomes one of the centers of Islam, and one of the significant tourist attractions in Uzbekistan. Important construction works were carried out here during the reign of the Somani dynasty. A large mosque was built in Paykent.
At the beginning of the 11th century, the life of the city comes to a standstill, which is believed to have been caused by a lack of water. In the 12th century, Arslan Khan from the Karakhanid dynasty unsuccessfully tried to establish a separate channel from Zarafshan. A lot of effort and money will be spent, many people will be sacrificed, but the project will not succeed. Until the 15th century, the area was still partially inhabited, but the city was eventually abandoned.
2. Ark Castle
A majestic castle with a height of about 20 meters and an area of 4 hectares. It is the oldest architectural and archaeological monument in Bukhara, and one of the notable tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
According to the legend, the young man Siovush wanted to marry the daughter of the ruler of Afrosiyab. To this offer, the king replied that if the young man could build a fort on the hide of a bull, I would give him my beloved daughter. The guy agrees. He makes a carpet out of leather, on which he builds an amazing castle.
The exact date of construction of the Ark fortress is unknown. In the 1st millennium, notable people of the city lived there. The fortress has always reliably protected the rulers of Bukhara. Apart from the kings, there was also the house of Abu Ali ibn Sina and Omar Khayyam, one of the figures of science and culture of Asia.
Now it is a museum-reserve. It has more than 70 thousand exhibits. The throne room, bathhouse, 2 mosques, prime minister’s and reception palace, stables and apartments have been preserved to this day.
3.Seven holy places of Bukhara
Bukhara-Naqshbandi brotherhood is the homeland of seven great Sufis. The great representatives of Sufism lived here, led a religious and social life, contributed to the formation and prosperity of Bukharai Sharif, the upbringing of spirituality, and the rise of emotional spirit. There are sacred places for Muslims where Sufi saints are buried.
A. The mausoleum of Khwaja Abdulhakim al-Gijduvani
Khwaja Abdul Khaliq al-Gijduvani was a murshid (spiritual teacher) who laid the foundation stone of Naqshbandiyya teachings.
During his lifetime, the mausoleum was a shrine where people came to pray in the forty-day heat. Then the prayer hall becomes a place of pilgrimage. Most of the pilgrims start their holy journey by visiting this mausoleum. In the recent past, the shrine was deserted. Now, the mausoleum embodies the connection between earth and heaven, as part of the Ancient East.
B. Khoja Muhammad Obid al-Revgari
Khoja Arif Revgari ibn Ismail (1165–1262) was born in the village of Revgar. He was a student of the great Abdulkhaliq Gijduvani. After the death of the great master, he is allowed to become a spiritual master. He was engaged in religious activities until the end of his life.
C. The mausoleum of Khwaja Mahmud Anjir Fagnavi
The cemetery of the great Sufi, spiritual teacher. He was born near the city of Wobkent. At the beginning of his career, he was engaged in craftsmanship and carpentry. He goes through the path of a student and reaches the level of a murshid. Mahmoud Anjir Fagnavi believed that “those who are sleeping should wake up” and was the first to start chanting the zikr aloud.
D. Khoja Ali Romitoni memorial complex
The burial place of the famous spiritual master of Khojagan Sufi school. People called the Sufi “Aziz Khan” (respected sheikh) and it remains a significant tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
He was born in the city of Romiton at the end of the 12th century. He worked as a weaver and was a student of Mahmud Fagnavi. He managed to do the impossible, convert the Mongols to Islam. Romitany helps restore scattered lands, practices medicine. During his long and pious life, he raised many disciples, among them were his sons. He bequeaths that his youngest son Khoja Ibrahim will continue his teachings.
E. Khwaja Muhammad Baba Samosi memorial complex
The burial place of the famous Sufi, a follower of Khoja Ali Romitoni. Khwaja Samosi (1259–1354) made an incomparable contribution to the development of Sufism, he predicted the birth of the great man Bahauddin Muhammad Naqshbandi and his contribution to the development of Sufism.
He said that the greatest child of Sufism and Enlightenment would be born and his birthplace would be called the Village of the Enlightened. The teacher died at the age of 95. In the holy place where he was buried, a mausoleum, a mosque, a well and a beautiful garden were built, which this great man was able to incarnate with his teachings.
F. Khwaja Said Amir Kulol Bukhari memorial complex
The burial place of Hanafi scholar-theologian, Sufi murshid, pir, spiritual teacher Bahauddin Naqshbandi. During his life, he had the nickname “Kalon” (Great).
Said Amir Kulol (1287–1370) was born in a family belonging to a dynasty of potters in a place called Sukhar and was professionally engaged in this craft all his life. He was a famously talented potter and became famous long before he achieved the status of a great master. He had a spiritual influence and had more than a hundred followers. He introduced Naqshbandi to the basics of Sufism, the correct reading of dhikr and the traditions of the secret path of Khojagan.
G. Bahauddin Naqshbandi complex (XVI century)
Bahauddin Naqshbandi’s unique memorial complex was restored over the course of 5 centuries and became a religious pilgrimage site for followers of Islam, and tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
In the center of the yard is the sheikh’s tomb. In 1544, Abd al-Aziz Khan Bahauddin built the burial place in the form of a dahma, built of rectangular marble stone, with a marble grill carved on top. The spacious house was built on the initiative of the emir. At the beginning of the 18th century, a minaret and two mosques – men’s and women’s mosques – were added to the complex. Muzaffar Khan (reigned 1860–1885) ordered the construction of another mosque, which now bears his name.
During the years of the Soviet Union, the necropolis fell into ruins. In 1993, on the occasion of the 675th anniversary of the famous Sufi, restoration works were carried out in the complex. The monument was expanded in 2003. The domed entrance building is built in a traditional style for Central Asian religious buildings. The cemetery near the monument was restored, where representatives of the ruling dynasties of ancient Uzbekistan were buried.
This complex has become not only a religious Islamic shrine, but also a tourist attractions in Uzbekistan visited by many guests of Bukhara.
4. Labi Pool area
The magnificent Labi Pool ensemble is one of the central monuments of ancient Bukhara. The area was formed around the Nadirbegi reservoir in the 16th century.
First, the Madrasa of Nadir Devonbegi and the khanaqah of the same name (residence of Sufis), a pool and a caravanserai appeared here.The second building – the Kokaldosh madrasa, built in the 16th century, is one of the largest madrasas in Bukhara. It consists of 160 cells. Its facades are decorated with maloyika.
Labi Hovuz was once a trade point on the Great Silk Road, which contributed to the location of the nearby shopping street. Now, on a hot summer day, here is a coffee shop that will save you from the heat. A fountain was built instead of a water basin. Also, at the end of the 20th century, a bronze statue was erected to the hero of folk tales, Khoja Nasriddin. This area remains a significant tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
5. Toki Sarrafon
The traditional covered market was built in 1534-1535 during the reign of Ubaidullah Khan from the Shaibani dynasty. The building is built in the traditional Persian style and does not differ from similar covered bazaars of ancient Iran. Its name, translated from Persian and Tajik, means “Dome of money changers (qubbasi)”. The bazaar was built on the Silk Road and served as a foreign exchange market for traders. Since Muslims were forbidden to trade currency, it was done by Hindus and Jews. Toki Sarrophon is a popular tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
Toki Sarrophon is a popular attraction. Now the market sells decorative scarves, knives, carpets, folk musical instruments and other folk crafts.
6. Toki Telpakfurushon
One of the old covered markets in Bukhara. It was built in 1570-1571, during the reign of Iskandar Khan of the Uzbek Shaibani dynasty. Its name is translated from Persian and Tajik and means “telpakfurush merchant dome (kubbasi)”. For some time there were many shops and stalls selling hats. All kinds of hats, woolen hats, telapaks, etc. are sold here. Warehouses, caravanserais and hotels were built around the market.
This closed bazaar was known as Toqi Kitabfurushon (Book Sellers’ Tower), Toqi Chorsukhi Ohanin (Iron Goods Tower), Toqi Khoja Muhammad Parron (Dome of Khoja Muhammad Parron).
Toki Telpakfurushon is a famous tourist attractions in Uzbekistan. Now there are souvenir shops and shops selling handicrafts, carpets, souvenirs, etc.
7. Faizulla Khojayev House-Museum
Fayzulla Ubaydullaevich Khojayev (1896–15.03.1938) – Uzbek Soviet Party and statesman, Chairman of the Council of People’s Commissars of the Uzbek SSR (1924–1937), leader of the young Bukharans who were advocates of democracy and democracy. . In 1938, he was persecuted and later executed.
His house-museum is located in the rich and famous Ghaziyan district. The house is divided into outer and inner courtyards, stables and gardens. The museum displays furniture, clothing, tableware, sausages, vinyl records and other items from that period. Faizulla Khojayev House-Museum is a significant tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
8. Abu Ali Husayn ibn Abdullah ibn Sina Memorial Complex-Museum (Mausoleum of Avicenna)
In 1980, a memorial complex-museum was built in honor of the 1000th anniversary of the philosopher and scientist Abu Ali Ibn Sina. Ibn Sina left a great mark on the exact sciences, philosophy, medicine and art.
The museum includes several halls, a recreation room, a conference hall, a video library and more than 400 exhibits of X-XI century culture. Manuscript publications of the history of Bukhara related to the period of Ibn Sina, material and spiritual culture, medical instruments are located in the museum. The Abu Ali Husayn ibn Abdullah ibn Sina Memorial Complex-Museum is a renowned tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
9. Blacksmith craft museum-monument
The blacksmith craft museum-monument was created in 1992 in Caravanserai, near the Toki Telpakfurushon dome. In the museum, you can not only learn the history of blacksmithing, but also participate in the process yourself and make some kind of souvenir as a souvenir. Swords, knives, daggers and other blacksmith works are displayed in the museum. There is also a preserved manuscript of the charter of smiths – Risolai ahangari and copper.
The services of Shakir Kamolov, the representative of the fifth generation of the blacksmith family, in creating the blacksmith museum are incomparable. The Blacksmith craft museum-monument is an educational tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
SHAHRISABZ
Shahrisabz is one of the ancient and beautiful cities that grave tourists attraction in Uzbekistan, the historical center of which is included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. The great general Amir Temur was born in this city.
The most popular tourist attractions in Uzbekistan include those found in Shahrisabz:
✔️ The ruins of ancient Aksaroy,
✔️ Blue Dome Mosque,
✔️ Dor ut-Tilovat memorial complex,
✔️ Dorus-Saodat, Shamsad-Din Kulyal, Gumbazi-Seyidon mausoleums.
An interesting fact is that the main highway passing through Shahrisabz repeats the route of the great Italian traveler Marco Polo.
KOKAN
Kokan is the oldest city on the Great Silk Road. The city is rich in luxurious monuments and magnificent madrasahs, and this is not surprising, because Kokan was the center of the development of science. Be sure to check out the following attractions:
1. Khudoyar Khan Palace
The real masterpiece of Kokan and one of the main historical attractions of the city is the Khudoyor Khan Palace, which is also called “Kokan Horde” by the people.
It is known from history that there were more than 29 khans in the Kokan Khanate, but the most powerful was Khudoyor Khan, who ascended the throne at the age of 12 in 1845 and gained fame as a fierce and tenacious ruler.The complex was built in 1871 and became the palace of the seventh khan. This is a truly magnificent oriental palace, as if taken from the fairy tale “One Thousand and One Nights”.
The best masters of the khanate and neighboring estates were involved in the construction of the palace. The construction work was supervised by the talented architect Mir Ubaidulla from Kokan. The best craftsmen of Rishton (the ancient center of pottery) were engaged in finishing work in the palace.
Initially, the complex was located on an area of 4 hectares and consisted of 7 courtyards with various buildings. The palace building rose three meters high and was 138 meters long and 65 meters wide. A long ramp leads to the main entrance, at the foot of which formerly stood iron and copper cannons. Above the huge carved doors there is an inscription in Arabic that says “The Great Seyyed Muhammad Khudoyar Khan”.
Originally, the palace had 119 rooms, decorated with openwork patterns and colorful decorations. The throne room and the reception hall of the khan had a special place. Nearby were the treasury, the royal treasury, the military arsenal, rooms for his children, and the private rooms of the khan and his wives.
Unfortunately, only 2 courtyards and 19 rooms have survived to this day. Most of the Khan’s property was looted or confiscated. Today, in world museums, you can find some items related to the period of the Kokan Khanate. One of them – Khudoyor Khan’s throne, decorated with precious stones, is kept in the Hermitage (St. Petersburg).
Currently, the palace itself houses a museum of local history, which tells about the former glory of the mighty khanate. This palace stands as one of the significant tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
2. Jami Mosque
Kokan’s heritage as a Muslim center is reflected in the many preserved religious buildings, some of which are striking in their appearance.
One of them is the beautiful and elegant Jami Mosque in Chorsu Square.
Historical chronicles of the 9th-12th centuries mention the cathedral mosque located on Chorsu Square in Kokon. But in the 13th century, during the Mongol conquests, it, like the whole city, was destroyed and rebuilt by Omar Khan at the beginning of the 19th century.
In 1805, the ruler of Kokan, Olim Khan, started the construction of the cathedral mosque, but the construction was stopped. And only in 1814, Umar Khan, Olim Khan’s brother, started building the mosque again. He invited a talented architect from Ura-Tyuba to lead the construction. At least 200 talented builders worked under his leadership. Two years later, the Jami Mosque was built, and the fame of its beauty spread from Kokan and far away.
To this day, one can admire the skillful pillars of the porch, painted in gold-tinged colors, and the flower-domed room. The walls of the mosque are preserved with exquisite ganch carving, and in the middle of the courtyard there is a fine single minaret with a height of 22.5 meters, with a pointed dome, where the muezzin calls the believers to prayer. According to legend, criminals, traitors and wives accused of treason were banished from here. The entire Kokan could be seen from the top of the tower.
There were rooms and classrooms along the perimeter of the courtyard, as the mosque also housed a madrasah that functioned until 1918.
In 1905, the complex was restored.To this day, the residents of the city rush here to perform the next Friday prayer.
The beauty and nobility of the architecture of the Jami Mosque put it on a par with the architectural moments of Samarkand and Bukhara. This mosque is among the prominent tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
3. Hamza House Museum
The museum opened in 1959 in his house was dedicated to Khamza Hakimzada Niyazi from Kokand, and today it has become an important attraction of the city.This poet gained some recognition as a talented writer, dramatist and musician, representative of the people’s will.
A neat yard with a hundred-year-old mulberry tree and a vineyard, a residential building divided into male and female halves will introduce the guest to the life and lifestyle of an Uzbek family. The exposition of the museum consists of the house of the father of Hamza, a well-known healer in the city, and the office of Hamza himself – there is his piano, Uzbek musical instruments, books and magazines. Next to it is the room of the poet’s mother and sister who raised her son after Hamza’s death.
Here, in an ordinary house, the talent of Hamza, a real defender of the people, a poet-democrat, a playwright and a composer, matured. This museum is among the notable tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
4. Norbuta Bey Madrasa
You can also see several old madrasahs in the city. Norbuta-bey madrasa is a bright example of Kogan architect and craftsmen’s craft. It was built in the 18th century next to the Jami Mosque and became the largest religious center in the city.
Norbuta-bey madrasa is very similar to typical Bukhara monuments of the 18th-19th centuries in terms of construction style and construction. It is a monumental single-story building with two central arches and floret towers with pointed cylindrical tops. The facade wall is covered with bricks and is 70 meters long. The main entrance is highlighted by a large front porch (portal) and faces north.
The inner space of the madrasa is a closed structure. Along the perimeter of the inner courtyard there are 24 cells – cells for students. To the right of the entrance to the classroom is the main room where classes are held, to the left is the domed mosque where religious ceremonies are held, and in the middle is the terrace where classes are held in the hot season.
Madrasa still fulfills its purpose – it is an educational institution. Currently, more than 80 students study. This madrasa is another of the important tourist attractions in Uzbekistan.
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