About this experience
Samarkand's history spans 2750 years. During this time, it has flourished and declined several times. Genghis Khan wanted to erase it from the face of the earth, but it was reborn like a Phoenix from the ashes. I will tell you all about this on the tour! I will also show you all the city's landmarks: ancient squares, mosques, madrasas, and mausoleums. I will teach you how to bargain at the eastern market and reveal where the most delicious pilaf is cooked.
What to Expect
Magnificent Samarkand
Not for nothing is Samarkand translated as 'rich settlement'. It will impress you with the luxury, grandeur, and scale of ancient architecture. The tour program includes:
- Gur-Emir Mausoleum - we will visit the tomb of Amir Timur, who is probably known to you as Tamerlane. I will tell you about his feats, life, and death.
- Registan Square - the main square of Samarkand. You will see three ancient madrasas on it and understand the peculiarities of ancient Eastern architecture through their example.
- Bibi-Khanym Mosque - you will admire its sky-blue dome and an arch the size of the Milky Way. I will explain why this mosque became the epitome of the power and ambitions of Amir Timur.
- Shah-i-Zinda Complex - a medieval ensemble of mausoleums, where local rulers and other notable people are buried. Each of them wanted to leave something special for their descendants. Together, we will decipher their thoughts embodied in architecture.
We will also visit a paper factory, where you will get acquainted with the paper-making process. We will stop by the eastern bazaar, where I will teach you how to bargain. And, of course, we will try the quintessential Samarkand pilaf.
Organizational Details
- Entrance tickets are not included in the price - $15 per person
- The tour can be on foot or by car (transportation needs to be arranged separately)
- Food and drinks are paid for separately
