The most worthwhile place in Samarkand is here, but there is one thing that is really not worth it.
Samarkand, once the capital of the Timurid Empire, is a prime tourist destination among Uzbekistan's many cities.
Which of these attractions are worth visiting?
Which should you avoid?
⭕️Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleum
As Samarkand's most popular attraction,
if you want to photograph Shah-i-Zinda when it's deserted,
you must arrive at 7:00 AM when it opens.
Enter and photograph the large scenes first, then the smaller ones,
and then explore the surrounding area at your leisure.
If you don't want to get up early,
evening is also a good option.
Crowds typically thin out after 6:00 PM.
If you particularly like this place,
you can visit it either morning or evening.
You can enter and exit multiple times.
⭕️Hazrat Khizr Mosque
Free.
It's located right next to Shah-i-Zinda.
From the top, you can overlook the Bibi Hanem Mosque.
❌ Bibi Haneim Mosque
It's not that it's bad, but it's a truly magnificent building.
There's also an interesting love story behind it.
Those interested can look it up.
There's also a giant Quran in the courtyard.
Due to earthquakes and vandalism, the main building is closed to the public.
Only two adjacent areas are open, but both sell souvenirs.
The exterior looks much the same as the interior, so there's absolutely no need to waste money going in.
⭕️ Registan Square
Comprising three magnificent madrasas built in different centuries, it's the heart of Samarkand.
The magnificent domes, towering minarets, and blue mosaic-covered facades showcase the pinnacle of Timurid architecture.
The evening light show is worth seeing.
There are two versions: one simpler, the other more elaborate.
The light show schedule varies seasonally, so be sure to check with the staff in advance.
⭕️Gur Amir Mausoleum
This is the resting place of Timur the Great and some of his descendants.
The massive blue ribbed dome is a model of architecture, influencing later buildings such as the Taj Mahal.
The interior is magnificently decorated, with a vibrant interplay of colored bricks and gold leaf.
The mausoleum houses nine symbolic sarcophagi, including those of Timur and his grandson, the astronomer Ulugh Beg.
The "Timur Curse," rumored to have triggered war when the coffins were opened, adds a touch of mystery to the site.
⭕️Aksaray Mausoleum
Located just behind Gur Amir Mausoleum, its exterior is unremarkable, but the interior dome is incredibly exquisite, creating a striking contrast.
For a fee, an elderly man will take your phone and place it on a rotating platform to take videos and photos of the dome.
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