samarkand
NOTABLE MENTIONS
My list of must visit landmarks and attractions in Samarkand just did not feel complete without mentioning a few runners-up:
Hazrat-Hizr Mosque
Located on the site of an 8th-century predecessor, the jovial 19th-century Hazrat-Hizr Mosque is one of Samarkand’s more recent tourist attractions. It is well worth a brief visit because of its intricate woodwork and vibrantly painted verandah, which set it apart from its medieval rivals in terms of construction and decor.
Khovrenko Wine Factory
Operating since the mid-19th century, Khovrenko Wine Factory is the most well-known winery in the area. You will learn about local winemaking techniques and the occasions that led to the winery’s establishment during a tour of the museum. The visit will conclude with a sampling of multiple local varieties
Mausoleum of Imam al-Bukhari
This expansive mausoleum honors a well-known Islamic scholar and native of Bukhara who lived in the ninth century. Mausoleum of Imam al-Bukhari, a well-known pilgrimage site, is located near Samarkand on the route to Bukhara and consists of mausoleums, mosques, courtyards, and a small mart.
Ulugh Beg Observatory: Gazing into the Cosmos
Ulugh Beg, Timur’s grandson, was not just a ruler but a pioneering astronomer. His observatory, now partly in ruins, was once a hub of scientific discovery. The remaining sextant is a testament to the advanced astronomical knowledge of the time. It’s humbling to stand where astronomers once mapped the stars, pushing the boundaries of their world.