Samarkand is one of Uzbekistan’s oldest and most beautiful cities. With its over 2750-year-old history, it stands as one of the most significant cultural centers of human civilization, evidenced by numerous magnificent attractions.
The former capital of the Timurid Empire still retains its splendor today: turquoise domes, mosaic-decorated madrasahs, and massive mosques await visitors. Samarkand is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing a unique blend of Persian, Arab, Mongol, and Turkic cultures.
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Samarkand attractions
Registan Square
The heart of Samarkand and Central Asia’s most famous architectural ensemble. The square, meaning „sandy place”, consists of three monumental madrasahs – Islamic religious schools: Ulugbek, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Kari. Built in the 15th-17th centuries, the ensemble is a perfect example of Timurid architecture.
The harmonious arrangement of the three buildings offers an unparalleled panorama, especially at sunset when the turquoise majolica tiles glow in golden light. Thousands of geometric patterns, calligraphic inscriptions, and floral motifs cover the facades. At night, a light show makes the ensemble’s monumentality even more spectacular.
The square is not only an architectural masterpiece but was the center of the city’s public life for centuries. Public offices, markets, and celebrations took place here. The square also hosts cultural events and concerts.
Tilla-Kari Madrasah
Built between 1646 and 1660, it is the youngest of the three buildings on Registan Square. Its name means „covered with gold”, referring to the building’s main distinctive feature: the interior mosque’s dome and walls are richly decorated with gilded ornamentation.
The most impressive sight is inside the mosque: the mihrab – a prayer direction niche – and its surroundings, along with the dome’s interior surface, are decorated with gilded plant motifs and calligraphy. The special play of sunlight on the golden surfaces creates a magical atmosphere. The cells surrounding the courtyard were once student rooms but now serve museum functions.
This was the first building on the square to have both educational and religious functions, serving as both madrasah and mosque. Due to this dual role, it received particularly rich decoration, which was thoroughly restored in the 20th century.
Sher-Dor Madrasah
Built between 1619 and 1636 on the order of Governor Jalangtuš Bahadur, as a counterpart to the Ulugbek Madrasah. The name means „bearing lions”, referring to the unique mosaic image on the building’s facade: two lions or tigers chase a deer while carrying a stylized sun on their backs.
This animal-depicting decoration is extremely unusual in Islamic art, which generally avoids figurative representations. Persian and Turkic influences also appear behind the mosaic images, making the building special. Calligraphic inscriptions and geometric patterns decorate the surfaces on both sides of the entrance gate.
Another distinctive feature of the building is the asymmetric solution of the domes, as the builders tried to symmetrically replicate the structure of the Ulugbek Madrasah, but deviations occurred due to terrain conditions.
Ulugbek Madrasah
Built between 1417 and 1420, it is the oldest building on Registan Square. Founded by Prince Ulugbek, Timur’s grandson, who was not only a ruler but also an outstanding astronomer and mathematician. The institution he created became one of the most significant scientific centers of its time.
The madrasah’s facade is decorated with starry sky motifs, geometric patterns, and arabesques, alluding to Ulugbek’s astronomical interests. Of the building’s four entrances, the main entrance is the most impressive, covered with colorful majolica tiles. The two-story cell rows around the courtyard could accommodate 50-100 students.
Two tall minarets were erected in front of the building, one of which is now damaged, but their original size is still clearly visible. Mathematics, astronomy, theology, and philosophy subjects played a prominent role in education. The building was thoroughly restored in the 20th century and now functions as a museum and cultural space.
Gur-Emir Mausoleum
The resting place of Timur the ruler and his descendants, built between 1403 and 1404. The name means „emir’s tomb” and it became one of Central Asia’s most influential architectural models. The turquoise, ribbed dome is 35 meters high, a landmark of the city visible from afar.
The interior of the mausoleum is breathtaking: the walls are decorated with onyx, marble, and jade, while the ceiling is covered with gilded papier-mâché with muqarnas – honeycomb-like – decoration. Timur’s tomb is made of green jade stone, which according to history came from Genghis Khan’s throne. In reality, the body rests in the underground crypt.
The building’s historical significance is enormous: after Timur’s death in 1405, he was buried here, and later his son, grandson Ulugbek, and other family members were also laid to rest here. Soviet archaeologists opened the crypt in 1941, confirming that Timur was lame. An inscription at the entrance allegedly cursed those who disturb Timur’s rest.
Aksaray Mausoleum
One of the lesser-known but architecturally significant monuments of the Timurid period, built in the second half of the 15th century. The structure was originally part of a larger complex, of which only the mausoleum and some wall remains have survived. The building’s name means „white palace”.
The mausoleum’s dome and facade are decorated with blue and white majolica tiles forming geometric and plant patterns. The interior space is smaller but richly decorated: its walls are covered with mosaics and hand-painted patterns. The architectural style is characteristically Timurid, but early Shaybanid dynasty influences are already perceptible.
The building’s historical role is not entirely clear, but members of a distant branch of Timur’s family were likely buried here. The surrounding area is an archaeological excavation site where new finds are continuously discovered. The mausoleum is less visited than other Samarkand monuments, offering a quiet, authentic experience.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
One of Central Asia’s largest and most ambitious religious buildings, built by Timur between 1399 and 1404 after his Indian campaign. Tradition says he named it after his favorite wife, Bibi Khanym, though historians believe this is more legend. The building’s dimensions are impressive: the main gate is 35 meters high, the dome’s diameter is 15 meters.
During construction, more than 200 elephants transported building materials from India and Persia. Timur wanted a monumental mosque that would surpass everything he had seen. In the courtyard stands a giant marble holder where the huge Quran was originally placed. Women slide across this holder because belief holds it aids fertility.
Unfortunately, the building was significantly damaged by earthquakes over the centuries, and monumental restoration began in the 20th century. Today the turquoise domes shine again, and the four iwans provide an imposing sight. The mosque is an active religious site with Friday prayers held there.
Hazrat Khizr Mosque
One of the city’s oldest religious buildings, located near Afrosiab hill with a strategic viewpoint over the city. The mosque is dedicated to Prophet Khizr, the patron saint of waters and travelers, revered by both Islamic and Christian traditions. The original building was built in the 8th century but has been rebuilt several times.
The current structure dates mainly from the 19th century, though the foundations are much older. The building is modest in size but an excellent example of traditional Uzbek architecture: painted wooden columns, colorful ceiling, and simple but elegant decoration. The entrance door is covered with carved wood featuring traditional motifs.
Around the mosque is a cemetery where notable Samarkand personalities rest, including Karimov, Uzbekistan’s first president. The place is peaceful, few tourists visit, offering an authentic religious atmosphere. The terrace provides an unparalleled panorama of the city and surrounding plains.
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
The „Living King” necropolis is one of Central Asia’s holiest pilgrimage sites, an ensemble of mausoleums built between the 9th and 19th centuries.
Legend has it that Kusam ibn Abbas, the Prophet Muhammad’s cousin, is buried here, who brought Islam to the region in the 7th century. He was allegedly buried alive and is still praying underground.
The ensemble consists of eleven mausoleums lined up along a narrow street on the hillside. Each building represents a different period style, but all boast stunning majolica decoration. The turquoise, azure blue, and white tile floral patterns, geometric forms, and calligraphic inscriptions represent unparalleled artistic value. Some consider this Central Asia’s most beautiful tile mosaic ensemble.
In the necropolis rest female members of Timur’s family, military leaders, and religious figures. Notable buildings include Shadi Mulk Aka’s mausoleum – Timur’s sister – and Tuman Aka’s tomb – Ulugbek’s mother. Tradition holds that whoever walks the staircase three times is cleansed of sins.
The place remains an active pilgrimage site, especially during Navruz – Persian New Year – when thousands visit. Pilgrims tie green flags and ribbons to the buildings’ grilles, making wishes.
Ulugbek Observatory
It was one of the 15th century’s most advanced astronomical facilities, built between 1424 and 1429. Prince Ulugbek, who was not only a ruler but also an enthusiastic astronomer, created his groundbreaking star catalog here with the precise positions of 1018 stars. This work was only completed in Europe 200 years later with similar accuracy.
The building’s most important part was the massive sextant, partially sunk into the ground. The surviving structure, an 11-meter-high curved stone track, is still visible today, originally 40 meters high. Using this quadrant, they measured the exact length of solar years, differing from modern measurements by only 58 seconds.
Ulugbek died in 1449 on his own son’s orders, and the observatory was destroyed because religious leaders considered astronomy heresy. The building’s ruins were only discovered in 1908 by a Russian archaeologist’s work. Today a museum operates on site, presenting Ulugbek’s scientific achievements.
Visitors descending to the underground part can feel the structure’s size and technical sophistication. The museum collection presents replicas of period astronomical instruments, facsimiles of Ulugbek’s catalog, and the achievements of medieval Islamic astronomy.
Afrosiab
Afrosiab is the site of ancient Samarkand, with over 2500 years of history. The nearly 220-hectare area is located in the northern part of today’s city and was one of the Silk Road’s most important stations. The thriving commercial and cultural center of Sogdian civilization was destroyed during the 8th-century Arab conquest.
Artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations – ceramics, coins, carvings – prove the richness of Sogdian culture. The Afrosiab Museum houses the excavations’ most valuable treasure: 7th-century wall frescoes depicting Sogdian rulers, foreign delegations, and everyday life scenes. The frescoes’ uniqueness lies in combining Asian and Persian artistic elements.
Afrosiab is not only historically significant but also a cultural symbol: it proves Samarkand’s millennia-long continuity and the mixing of cultures along the Silk Road.
Saint Daniel Mausoleum
One of Samarkand’s most mystical and visited pilgrimage sites, equally revered among Jewish, Christian, and Muslim believers.
Tradition holds that Prophet Daniel, mentioned in the Old Testament book, rests here with his earthly remains, though this is not historically proven. Timur allegedly brought the relics here himself from one of his campaigns.
The mausoleum’s uniqueness is the extraordinarily long – nearly 18 meters – tomb, which allegedly grows several centimeters each year. Legend says that as the body grows, the mausoleum must also be expanded. Locals believe Daniel brings blessing to the city and his prayers protect Samarkand from troubles. Wishes can be made at the tomb.
Around the building is a shady park where five holy springs emerge, attributed with healing powers. Pilgrims draw water from these and use it at home against various diseases. The place is important for followers of all religions, so many visit especially on Sundays and religious holidays.
Abu Mansur Maturidi Mausoleum
Built in memory of the famous Islamic theologian and legal philosopher who lived in the 10th century and founded the Maturidi school. Maturidi’s work created one of Islam theology’s most influential trends, representing moderation and rationality within Sunni Islam. His original grave was only identified in the 20th century.
The modern mausoleum was built between 2000 and 2007 in traditional Timurid style with a turquoise dome and rich majolica decoration. The building is imposing, though new, its architectural elements pay homage to classical Samarkand traditions.
Maturidi’s theological views remain relevant today, especially in moderate Islam interpretation. The place attracts pilgrims from throughout the Islamic world. The complex includes a library and mosque. The surrounding park is well-maintained with shady rest areas.
Amir Temur Statue
Standing at one of Samarkand’s central points in the modern city center, creating a worthy memorial to the city’s greatest ruler.
Timur – Latinized as Tamerlane – created the mighty Timurid Empire at the turn of the 14th-15th centuries, extending from Central Asia to India and Anatolia. The statue was inaugurated in 1993 in the early years of Uzbekistan’s independence.
The bronze equestrian statue depicts Timur in battle dress with a sword in hand, mounted on a horse. The ruler’s figure is proud and determined, symbolizing national pride and Uzbek identity. The pedestal is made of marble, decorated with inscriptions quoting Timur’s deeds and wisdom. At night the statue is illuminated, providing a spectacular panorama.
Timur’s figure is ambivalent: on one hand, he was a brutal conqueror who demanded countless fatal casualties, on the other hand, a patron of arts and sciences who made Samarkand a splendid cultural capital. The statue today is a symbol of Uzbek national identity, commemorating both the great past and independence.
Siab Bazaar
Samarkand’s largest and liveliest market, located near the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. The name means „black river,” referring to the nearby Siab canal. The bazaar has a centuries-old tradition.
The bazaar offers fresh vegetables, fruits, spices, nuts, dried fruits, and local specialties. The colorful product piles and cavalcade of aromas provide a dazzling experience. Particularly famous is Samarkand bread. Uzbek spices, especially dried cherries and special pepper varieties, are also popular.
The bazaar features not only food but also handicraft products: traditional textiles, carpets, ceramics, and jewelry. Vendors are friendly, bargaining is expected as part of the shopping experience. The market offers an authentic experience, far from tourist traps.
Meros Paper Mill
A unique cultural attraction where the ancient, 11-century-old Samarkand papermaking tradition has been revived.
Historical Samarkand was one of the papermaking centers along the Silk Road, from where this Chinese-origin technique spread further to the Muslim world and later to Europe. The workshop opened in 2001 on the initiative of the Zaraut-Say family.
Visitors can follow the traditional papermaking process: from processing mulberry bark through soaking, grinding, and filtering the fibers to drying and smoothing. The entire process is done by hand using centuries-old methods. The paper quality is excellent, thick and durable, used for calligraphy and fine art work.
The workshop also houses a small museum displaying old documents, a collection of paper samples, and historical papermaking tools. Visitors can try papermaking and purchase handmade paper sheets, journals, and art albums. Products range from small gift items to serious artistic materials.
Samarkand weather: when is the best time to travel?
Samarkand has a continental climate with significant seasonal differences, dry and hot summers, and cold winters.
Spring (March-May):
Spring months bring pleasant weather when nature comes to life. Temperature in March is around 10-15°C, rising to 20-25°C by May. This season is excellent for travel as city parks bloom, especially the almond and cherry blossoms are stunning. Minor rainfall can be expected, but rarely lasts long.
Summer (June-August):
The summer period is extremely hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 35-40°C. In July and August, it almost never rains. Despite the heat, many choose this period because days are long and all attractions are open. Early morning and late afternoon excursions are recommended, while it’s worth staying in shaded, air-conditioned places in between.
Autumn (September-November):
Autumn is an ideal travel period when temperature is around 20-25°C in September, dropping to 10-15°C by November. The sky is clear, days are sunny, and rainy days are minimal. Fruits ripen, bazaars offer plenty of fresh produce. The city shines in golden colors, pleasant for walking and photography.
Winter (December-February):
Winter months are cold, with temperature often around or below freezing, between -5°C and +5°C. Occasional snowfall occurs, though precipitation is moderate. Attractions are less crowded, some specifically prefer this period for the authentic winter experience. Warm clothing is essential.
Best time to travel:
The best time to visit Samarkand is April-May and September-October. During these months, temperature is pleasantly between 20-25°C, the sky is clear, and precipitation is minimal. Spring months offer blooming nature, autumn months feature ripe fruits and golden colors. During these periods, sightseeing is comfortable, there’s no harsh heat or cold, and photography opportunities are ideal.
June-August is also popular, but heat exceeding 40°C can be challenging, while winter’s cold and shorter days are less favorable for travel.
Frequently Asked Questions about Samarkand
Samarkand is in the Uzbek time zone (UZT, UTC+5) and does not use daylight saving time.
The official language is Uzbek, but many speak Russian as well. English is mainly understood in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, but less so in local markets.
The local currency is the Uzbek som (UZS). Most places accept cash, but more and more hotels, restaurants, and modern stores accept bank cards. At smaller markets and taxis, it’s always worth carrying cash.
Samarkand International Airport (SKD) is about 7 km from the city center. Downtown can be reached by taxi or official airport transfer in 15-20 minutes. Local buses also operate, but taxi is the most convenient solution, especially with luggage.
The city’s main attractions are relatively close to each other, easily accessible on foot or with short taxi rides. Local taxis are cheap and can also be ordered with the Yandex Go app. Public transport (bus, minibus) is also usable, but there’s little information in English.
Samarkand is generally a safe city, especially in tourist centers and around main attractions. Locals are friendly and helpful. At night, however, it’s worth avoiding less illuminated suburban areas, and watching valuables in crowded markets.
The best choice is around Registan Square, from where main attractions are accessible on foot. The Shah-i-Zinda neighborhood and Siab Bazaar area are also good options if you seek an atmospheric, local experience. The city has several modern hotels and traditional guesthouses.
Uzbeks are tradition-respecting and hospitable. It’s important to wear modest clothing at religious sites (covering shoulders and knees recommended). Shoes must be removed in mosques. Handshaking is customary, but between man and woman, often only the local woman initiates it.
Registan Square: three stunning madrasahs in the city’s heart.
Gur-Emir Mausoleum: Tamerlane’s ornate tomb.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque: once Central Asia’s largest mosque.
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis: dazzlingly decorated tomb complex.
Ulugbek Observatory: one of the pinnacles of 15th-century astronomy.
The city is famous for Uzbek cuisine, especially plov (rice-meat one-pot dish), considered the national dish. Worth trying samsa (stuffed, baked pastry), lagman (vegetable-meat noodle dish), and shashlik (grilled meat skewer). Fresh bread, lepyoshka, is an indispensable part of every meal.