One of the oldest cultural centers in the world
Experience the wealth and architectural highlights of one of the world's oldest cultural centers, Samarkand. The capital of Timur Leng's empire flourished through trade, and both Djenghiz Khan and Alexander the Great stood at its gates. Writers and poets such as Oscar Wilde, Keats, Edgar Allen Poe and Hafez were inspired by this romantic city. Marvel at the world-famous Registan, where three sumptuously decorated Koranic schools stand around the square. On the outskirts of the city, visit the necropolis (necropolis) Shah-i-Zinda where truly beautiful mosaic work from the 14th and 15th centuries lines the many mausoleums.
Shachrisabz
Just a short, scenic mountain ride away from Samarkand lies Shachrisabz, birthplace of warlord Timur Leng. He built his impressive palace, the Ak-serai, there. The huge entrance gate is all that remains of this once mighty structure but the view from the tower is impressive. Visit some medressah, mosques and Timoers tomb to experience how grand his empire once was.
