Tashkent (Tashkent) is the modern and dynamic capital of Uzbekistan, where Soviet architecture, wide boulevards and green parks meet ancient traditions. After the devastating 1966 Tashkent earthquake, the city was largely rebuilt in characteristic Soviet style, which is still clearly visible today. Icons such as the Hotel Uzbekistan, the lively Chorsu Bazaar and the impressive metro stations, each with its own theme and richly decorated with mosaics, give the city a unique character. The mix of old and new, combined with modern shopping streets, a welcoming atmosphere and a vibrant nightlife full of cafes and restaurants, makes Tashkent an ideal start or end to a trip through Uzbekistan.
Old Tashkent
In the historic heart of the city, the Khast Imam complex (Hazrati Imam) is the spiritual centerpiece, where the Muyi Muborak Madrasa houses one of the oldest Qurans in the world, the 7th-century Quran of Oethman. The complex includes magnificent structures from the 16th to 20th centuries, including the Barak-Khan Madrasa and the Tillya Sheikh Mosque. The Chorsu Bazaar has been a bustling trading center and meeting place for centuries: under its iconic blue dome still hides a colorful world of smells and tastes: from spices and freshly baked bread to textiles and handmade souvenirs. In addition, Tashkent offers several interesting museums, such as the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan. Afterwards, stroll through Amir Timur Square, named after the legendary conqueror Timur, or through one of the many parks, as the Uzbeks do.
