Samarkand History of the Samarkand

Gur-Emir Mausoleum The fearsome conqueror and leader behind Samarkand’s shocking beauty, Tamerlane (known locally as Amir Timur) is buried in a mausoleum that rivals some palaces. With its trademark turquoise cupola, glazed bricks and lavish marble designs, Gur-Emir served as the blueprint for the Taj Mahal and is now one of the most recognizable landmarks in Uzbekistan. Interestingly, Tamerlane never intended to be buried at Gur-Emir, or even in Samarkand for that matter, yet after a series of unforeseen events he now lies interred in his capital alongside several close relatives and a mentor.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque One of the largest mosques in the world at the time of construction in the early 15th century, Bibi-Khanym Mosque was built in the throes of victory following Amir Timur’s conquest of India. Depending on which account you believe, the cutting-edge construction was either dedicated to Bibi-Khanym, Timur’s favorite wife, or was built by the queen as a surprise for her husband on his return from battle. Either way, the overeager architects compromised structural integrity for size, and the building began to crumble in a few short years. Miraculously, Bibi-Khanym remained partially intact until recent large-scale repairs helped to stabilize this monstrous beauty, now one of the most famous landmarks in Uzbekistan.

Siab Bazaar When you’re ready to step out of Tamerlane’s historic empire into modern Samarkand, look no farther than the lively Siab Bazaar, located right next to Bibi-Khanym Mosque. Rows upon rows of aisles awash with the colors of sparkling fabrics, eye-catching souvenirs and seasonal fruits are a feast for the eyes, while the scent of Samarkand’s famous bread and the high-spirited invitations of the sellers to taste their products prove an irresistible temptation for many a traveler.

Shakhi-Zinda The shimmering azure corridor of Shakhi-Zinda (The Living King) is a favorite of many travelers to Uzbekistan. Flanking either side of its massive central stairway are some 20 buildings and tombs of royal and religious greats which are decorated with thousands of colorful tiles. The tombs were built gradually between the 11th-15th centuries, yet the basic structure of each is nearly identical, giving the site a stately, uniform look. The visual effect as you ascend the stairs in a sea of blue and green majolica is nothing short of spectacular. Many of the tombs have been renovated, while others retain elements of their original facades, and all are beautiful in their own right. A superb spot for photos, particularly in the morning, remember to be mindful of the many local religious tourists who regard the site as holy.

Ulugbek Observatory The legacy of Ulugbek is almost as pervasive in Samarkand as that of Tamerlane himself. A grandson of Tamerlane best known for his work in the field of astronomy, Ulugbek built the largest observatory in medieval Central Asia and is recognized as one of the greatest astronomers of his day. Although much of the three-story observatory was destroyed long ago, its sizable underground arc has survived as a testimony to Ulugbek’s ingenious contributions to the field of science.