Tashkent

Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital and largest city, is a vibrant blend of modernity and ancient history. Once a key hub on the Silk Road, Tashkent has grown into a cosmopolitan city of over 3 million people, where Central Asia’s rich traditions meet contemporary life. It was largely rebuilt in the Soviet era after a devastating earthquake in 1966, giving the city a unique mix of monumental Soviet architecture and newer developments.

The city is a treasure trove of cultural experiences. Here you can wander through Chorsu Bazaar, a lively marketplace bursting with colourful spices, fresh produce, and intricate Uzbek crafts. The atmosphere is electric, and it’s a great place to sample traditional dishes like plov and samsa.

Tashkent is also home to stunning Islamic architecture. The Khast-Imam complex is a serene space where you can see one of the world’s oldest Quran, the Uthman Quran, housed in the Muyi Mubarak Library. The turquoise domes and intricate tilework here are perfect for a postcard-worthy moment.

Another of Tashkent’s treasures is the Kukeldash Madrasah, perched on a high hill near Chorsu Square. It was built between 1551 and 1575 by Kukeldash, a vizier and foster brother of the Tashkent Khans. The madrasah follows a traditional design and is one of the largest 16th-century madrasahs still standing in Central Asia, reflecting the advanced design and construction methods of the time. Built from baked brick, only the main façade is adorned. Its portal preserves remnants of carved decoration, glazed bricks, and majolica, restored in 1950.

For a taste of modern Tashkent, explore Amir Timur Square, surrounded by green gardens and fountains. The Tashkent Metro, with its ornate, chandelier-lit stations, is a surprising highlight – each station is a work of art in itself.