Supervisor Elham AbolFateh
Editor in Chief Mohamed Wadie

Samarkand, Jewel of Central Asia


Fri 12 Feb 2021 | 05:25 AM
Rana Atef

Samarkand, the jewel of Central Asia. This city is known for its magnificent location on the historical Silk Road. It also depicts the greatness of Islamic architecture.

Here are top facts about the city and its marvelous destinations

Located in east-central Uzbekistan, the name of the city depicts a miserable legend. There was a princess called "Kant" and she was in a love relationship with a same-aged boy, he called "Samar."

"Kant" father refused such a relation between his daughter and the poor boy, "Samar," and killed him.

Shortly, "Kant" committed suicide that's why the people of the city decided to pay a tribute to the departed lovers and called the city by their names.

Aged 2500 years old, the city witnessed the rise and fall of many empires such as Alexander the Great, Persian, Islamic, Mongol, Timur, and Russian kingdoms.

The city can be pided into two main parts: the modern one which is constructed by the Russians, and the old one which still preserves its ancient vibe.

Witnessing several cultures due to invasion is not the only reason for creating such cultural persity, but also its location on the great Silk Road enhanced this mood of cultural exchange in the city.

Samarkand is celebrated for its breathtaking buildings and mosques such as Tilya-Kori Madrasah, Ulugh Beg Madrasah, Sher-Do Madrasah, Mausoleum of Amir Timur, Complex Museum of Mirzo Ulugbek, The Kusam ibn Abbas Complex, and Bibi-Khanym Mosque.

Furthermore, city visitors can have a more enjoyable experience through touring the local bazaar of the city where several folk traditions and food are served.