Samarkand – the third most populous city in Uzbekistan and one of the oldest cities in the world according to archaeological data was founded in the middle of the 8th century BC. The city is located in the valley of the Zaravshan River at an altitude of about 720 meters above sea level.
Samarkand is known in ancient history as the capital of the ancient state of Sogdiana, which was first mentioned under the name Marakanda, in the writings of Roman and Greek historians. This fairly well-established and developed city has survived the invasions of many conquerors and passed from hand to hand of many rulers.
The Great Silk Road played a big role in the development of Samarkand. This city was a key point on the Great Silk Road between Europe and China, due to its favorable geographical location. This city served as a so-called land beacon for caravans on the Silk Road. Camel caravans stopped in Samarkand on their way from China to Europe. Trade was actively developing, local residents mastered the secrets of sericulture, crafts and art.
The real prosperity of Samarkand began in the Timurid era. Destroyed buildings were restored and new structures were built, beautiful mosques and madrasahs, gardens, parks, etc. appeared. Trade, art and culture developed, and after the transition of power to Tamerlane’s grandson, science and astronomy began to develop actively, more and more educational institutions were being built and the Observatory of Ulugbek was opened.
Since the time of the Timurids, today you can see many architectural attractions such as: Shahi Zinda Mausoleum, Bibi Khanym Mosque, Ishrathana, Gur-Emir Mausoleum, Observatory of Ulugbek, etc.
In 1925-1930, as part of the USSR, Samarkand received the status of the capital of the Uzbek SSR, and in 1930 the capital was moved to the city of Tashkent.
Today, Samarkand is the second largest city in Uzbekistan and a favorite tourist destination.
