10 Must-See Attractions to Explore in Samarkand’s Blue City

Samarkand, Uzbekistan's second-largest city, is a historic oasis city that once flourished along the Silk Road. Today, it stands as Uzbekistan's premier tourist destination. Adorned with stunning mosques and historical structures, Samarkand is often referred to as the "Blue City" due to the captivating sight of blue-tiled mosque roofs against the sky. This article presents the 10 must-visit destinations in Samarkand, designed to enhance your travel experience.

1. Registan Square

Registan Square is an absolute must-see when visiting Samarkand. Many of the city's beautiful historical buildings are concentrated in and around Registan Square.

The square is home to three madrassas (Islamic higher education institutions), each one impressively larger and more imposing! When facing the square, the oldest madrassah, Ulug Beg Madrasah, is on the left. In the center, you'll find the Tilya-Kori Madrasah, and on the right is the Sher-Dor Madrasah. The vibrant blue dome-shaped roofs, the mosaic tiles on the gates, and the buildings' sandy hues create a truly exotic atmosphere. At night, the madrassas are illuminated, transforming the entire Registan Square into a magical scene.

2. Bibi Khanym Mosque

Built in 1404 by Timur, the founder of the Timurid dynasty, the Bibi-Khanum Mosque is incredibly large. It's one of the largest mosques in Central Asia.

Architects were summoned from neighboring countries, and with a massive workforce, this enormous mosque, measuring approximately 167 meters by 109 meters, was completed in just five years. This place truly gives you a sense of Timur's immense power.

In the garden in front of the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, there is a huge stone pulpit. In the past, a Quran of the same size as this pulpit was placed here. Incidentally, there's a local belief that if you circle this pulpit three times while making a wish, your wish will come true. Be sure to give it a try when you visit.

3. Siyab Bazaar

Siyab Bazaar, the largest market in Samarkand, is essentially the kitchen for the city's residents. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a vibrant display of colorful fruits, vegetables, and spices. A wide variety of breads and naan are densely packed, creating a visually appealing and aromatic experience.

The atmosphere in this bazaar is incredibly lively. As you wander through, you'll find shopkeepers enthusiastically engaging with tourists. If you find something you'd like to purchase, don't hesitate to negotiate the price.

Conveniently located just a few minutes' walk from the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, the bazaar is also popular among tourists due to its souvenir shops. It offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and experience the bustling energy of Samarkand.

4. Gur-e Amir Mausoleum

The Gur-e Amir mausoleum serves as the final resting place for Timur, the founder of the Timurid Empire, and his family.

From the exterior, the Gur-e Amir is immediately recognizable by its striking dome-shaped roof. However, the true splendor lies within. The interior is adorned with an abundance of gold, featuring intricate blue mosaic tiles and walls completely covered in gilded decorations. This opulent design is believed to have served as inspiration for later architectural marvels such as the Humayun's Tomb and the Taj Mahal in India, making the Gur-e Amir a historically significant landmark. At night, the Gur-e Amir is illuminated with an enchanting display of orange, green, and blue lights, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

5. Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleum

Located on the Afrasiab Hill, this archaeological complex houses 11 mausoleums, mosques, and other structures that were once the final resting places of Timur's relatives and other members of the royal family. The sight of 11 grand tombs adorned with blue mosaic tiles standing side by side is truly otherworldly.

These 11 tombs were not built simultaneously. The oldest dates back to the 6th century, while the newest was constructed in the 20th century. The complex has undergone numerous renovations and restorations over the years. According to local legend, these structures are associated with Abbas, a cousin of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, making this site a significant pilgrimage destination.

From a distance, the domes and wall decorations appear entirely blue. However, upon closer inspection, you'll notice slight variations in patterns and colors. When visiting, be sure to take your time and appreciate the intricate details.

6. Ulugh Beg Observatory

Located on a small hill known as Chupanata in the northeastern part of Samarkand, the Ulugh Beg Observatory stands as a testament to the advanced astronomical knowledge of the 15th century. Remarkably, the length of a day measured at this observatory during that period is nearly identical to our current measurements.

A colossal, inclined instrument designed for measuring angles extends north and south, exhibiting minimal deviation. This extraordinary precision attests to the sophisticated level of astronomy practiced during that era.

It is believed that the original Ulugh Beg Observatory was an expansive complex enclosed by a 30-meter-high structure. While only a portion of the observation facilities is accessible to visitors today, an adjoining museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the observatory's history. This museum showcases artifacts and historical documents unearthed at the site, making it a must-see for any visitor.

7. Afrasiyab Museum

Located in the northern part of Samarkand, the Afrasiab Museum is a tourist spot packed with the history of Samarkand. Among the exhibits, there are some from the era of Alexander the Great's conquest in the 4th century BC, clearly showing how long Samarkand has flourished.

Most of the exhibits were discovered on Afrasiab Hill. Before the 13th century when Samarkand was destroyed by the Mongol army, the city of Samarkand was located on Afrasiab Hill. Excavations are still ongoing, and new artifacts are continually being discovered.

8. Ishrat Khana Mausoleum

Southeast of Registan Square lies the Ishrat Khana Mausoleum, a structure often described as the most enigmatic and mysterious in all of Islamic architecture. Even its original purpose remains a subject of speculation and debate.

Unlike the well-preserved ruins found elsewhere in Samarkand, the Ishrat Khana Mausoleum is currently undergoing restoration. For centuries, restoration efforts have been avoided due to eerie legends linked to Ulugh Beg and his grandson. Despite its dilapidated state, with crumbling structures and faded murals, it maintains an uncanny atmosphere, inviting visitors to indulge in a sense of mystery.

9. Mausoleum of Imam al-Bukhari

The Imam al-Bukhari Mausoleum is the burial site of Muhammad al-Bukhari, a renowned 9th-century Islamic scholar.

Al-Bukhari is celebrated for compiling the Sahih al-Bukhari, a collection of hadith, or the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, which holds a paramount position in Sunni Islam, second only to the Quran. Given this significant contribution, the mausoleum has become a revered pilgrimage destination for Muslims visiting Uzbekistan.

Located in Samarkand, the mausoleum is a historical landmark. Its expansive grounds are adorned with exquisite architecture and offer a range of amenities for visitors. These include a mosque, accommodations for tourists and pilgrims, and various shops selling souvenirs, making it a comprehensive complex.

10. Daniel's Mausoleum

Located northeast of the hill of Afrasiab, the Daniel Mausoleum is a sacred tourist site where pilgrims from many countries come to pray. Timur brought Daniel's remains back to Samarkand during his expedition to Iran and built a tomb at this location.

Despite its simple appearance and lack of ornate decorations, the mausoleum is a sacred tourist site visited by pilgrims from many countries. The Daniel Mausoleum is the tomb of the prophet Daniel, who was active around the 3rd or 4th century BC, and is a holy site for the three religions of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. There are not many places in the world where people of three religions can come together to pray.

The tomb is a remarkable 18 meters long. There are various theories about why such a long tomb was built, including that the saint's bones grew longer each year. The reason remains a mystery.

◎ Summary of recommended sightseeing spots in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

For those who may not have been familiar with Central Asia, this article has given you a glimpse into the remarkable history and culture of Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Despite its distance reaching Samarkand from the Philippines. There are connecting flights from Manila to Tashkent, followed by convenient connections to Samarkand.

One of the most delightful surprises for visitors to Uzbekistan is the warm hospitality of the local people, especially towards tourists. Experience firsthand the rich culture and friendly atmosphere of Samarkand.

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10 Must-See Attractions to Explore in Samarkand’s Blue City