Shakhrisabz and the great monuments of the Timurid dynasty

Stunning views, authentic life and the history of the legendary ruler. Explore the structures that were to turn the city into the second luxurious capital of the empire

What awaits you

We will start with one of the most grandiose monuments of the Timurid era of the late 14th - early 15th centuries. The construction was carried out under the leadership of Amir Temur himself, who wished to build a luxurious palace in his hometown. The large-scale project involved about 50,000 slaves.

Exploring the remains of the palace, you will imagine what the once largest architectural ensemble of Central Asia looked like and learn what magnificent buildings and premises there were.

You will see the mausoleum built by Amir Temur for the beloved younger son. And appreciate the greatness of the building, on which the best architects from different cities of the empire worked. The complex eventually began to act as a family crypt for part of the Timurid dynasty.

Amir Temur rests in Samarkand, in Gur-Emir. However, initially this place was not supposed to be his tomb. Behind the Dorus Saodat complex you will see the ancient tomb of Tamerlane. You will find out how he was discovered, what facts prove that it was here that he was going to be buried, and how to explain the modest appearance of the tomb, which does not correspond to his character.

On the territory of the ancient cemetery in the southeastern part of Shakhrizabz you will visit the burial ensemble of the 14th-15th centuries. Here rests Emir Taragay - the father of Amir Temur.

The complex began to form after the death of Sufi Shamseddin Kulyal - a famous religious figure, spiritual mentor of Taragai and Temur himself, as well as one of the founders of the Sufi movement. You will hear about a man who played an important role in the formation and development of the legendary ruler. And visit his mausoleum - a place of attraction for pilgrims from different countries of Asia.

Among the majestic palaces and memorial complexes of Shakhrisabz, directly from the green gardens rises the blue dome of the mosque, visible from almost any part of the city. You will get acquainted with the history of the construction of the 15th century - the largest Friday mosque in the city, where all the main religious services were held. And you will hear about the initiator of the construction - Mirzo Ulugbek, the famous astronomer, public figure and grandson of Amir Temur.

At an altitude of just over 1700 meters, on the Takhta Karacha pass with fascinating views of the valley, make a real "tandyr gusht" - tandyr meat. It's a juicy lamb baked in an oven. At the end of the trip, you will taste a dish prepared according to a recipe that only mountaineers know.

The garden city of Shakhrizabz is famous for monuments, most of which were built under Amir Temur and Timurids. You will see the remains of the majestic Ak-Saray Palace, the memorial ensembles of Dorus Saodat (with the tomb of Tamerlane) and Dorut Tillavat, as well as the beautiful Kok-Gumbaz mosque with a blue dome. Get acquainted with the history and architecture of iconic buildings and hear about the bright personalities of that era.