Samarkand - Pearl of the East

Ornate patterns of palaces, turquoise domes, high minarets, colorful bazaar, unusual traditions and customs - all this is an adventure in fabulous Samarkand. On this tour you will learn the history of the great dynasty, get acquainted with the rich oriental culture and see the most beautiful sights.

In the footsteps of Tamerlane and the Timurid dynasty
The tour will begin with a visit to Gur-Emir - the tomb of Amir Temur (known throughout the world as Tamerlane), where his closest relatives and spiritual mentor are also buried. You will get acquainted with the features of the interior and exterior decoration, admire the magnificent majolica and mosaics and, of course, learn about the life and fate of the great conqueror from the day of his birth until his death. In addition, you will visit the Bibi-Khanum Cathedral Mosque (which literally means “elder princess”), where you will learn when and how it was built, what a beautiful legend is associated with it, and how Tamerlane managed to become an emir. During the tour you will hear more than once about the interesting fates of numerous Timurids.

Architectural property
You will visit the place that is considered the pearl of Samarkand - the necropolis of Shahi Zinda. This is a real encyclopedia of architecture: you will learn about what architects from different countries left their mark here, and how Eastern art developed. Of course, you will discover the heart of the city - Registan Square, where the architectural ensemble, included in the UNESCO list, is located. Here you will get acquainted with three madrasahs – buildings that served as scientific and educational centers in the Middle Ages. You will hear a story about the history of each madrasah, about their special architecture, about the life of students in their cells and about what Russian architects had a hand in the restoration of this ensemble and the development of the city as a whole.

Immersion in culture
The adventure will continue at the oldest in Central Asia Siab Bazaar: I will tell you about Uzbek traditions and customs, national cuisine and costumes, and you can buy local souvenirs, try traditional oriental sweets, fresh fruits and hot cakes, have a real pilaf. You will also visit a real Uzbek wedding, where you will see traditional wedding ceremonies - guests are always welcome here.

Discovery of the ancient city and 1018 stars
We will reach the ancient capital of Sogdiana - the settlement of Afrosiab, where archaeological excavations are still ongoing. In this settlement on the southern slope of the city you will learn about the history of this place, its name and cultural significance. Here you will visit the tomb of Khoja Daniyar (St. Daniel), a saint worshiped by Muslims, Jews, and Christians. And then there is the Ulugbek Observatory, Tamerlane’s grandson, who was an outstanding astronomer, philosopher and mathematician. You will learn about his life and the discoveries we encounter every day, as well as see the surviving portion of the 15th century sextant.

Ornate patterns of palaces, turquoise domes, high minarets, colorful bazaar, unusual traditions and customs - all this is an adventure in fabulous Samarkand. On this tour you will learn the history of the great dynasty, get acquainted with the rich oriental culture and see the most beautiful sights. You will find medieval centers of science, the mausoleum of the great Tamerlane, a grand mosque, a medieval necropolis, a lost city, a legendary observatory and many more places, stories and impressions.