Samarkand is not only of the oldest cities in Uzbekistan but also in the world. The city's name was Marakanda when it was established in the middle of the first century and it boasts of beautiful ornate buildings and monuments.
The city of Samarkand is located in Zarafshan valley in Uzbekistan. It is easily accessible from all other major cities of Uzbekistan.
Samarkand Attractions
Registan in Uzbekistan means "sand place". The first Madrassa was built here in the beginning of the fifth century and since then it is known as the Registan square. Registan square became the hub of all festivals, parades and bazaars. Presently there are three Madrassahs namely Ulugbek Madrassah, Tilla-Kari Madrassah and Sher - Dor Madrassah at Registan Square. The children of rich families came to study in the Madrassahs. Chapters from Koran were compulsorily taught and other subjects were chosen according to the students wish.
This famous mosque in Samarkand was built by famous artists, craftsman and architects from Eastern countries. The mosque was a surprise gift to Timur from his wife Bibi Hanim.
Gur-Emir which means "grave of Emir" was built in 1404 for Muhhamed Sultan, the grandson of Timur. Timur loved his grandson very much and he ordered to build the grave after the death of his grandson.
Samarkand Accommodation
Accommodation is not a problem in Samarkand as there are a number of hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfast facilities for the travelers. The restaurants in Samarkand serve Uzbek as well as European cuisine.
