Bibi-Khanym Mosque

The Bibi-Khanym Mosque in Samarkand was, upon its completion in 1404, one of the largest and most magnificent mosques in the Islamic world. Tamerlane (Timur) commissioned its construction in 1399 following his successful military campaign in India, intended as a monument to his power and devotion. The monumental entrance portal stands approximately 35 meters high, while the main dome soars to nearly 40 meters. The project employed hundreds of architects and stonemasons, as well as 95 elephants brought from India to transport the massive building materials. However, due to its immense scale and rapid construction, structural issues emerged shortly after completion, and parts of the building began to crumble. For centuries, the mosque remained largely in ruins until extensive restoration efforts began in the 1970s, returning the structure to its present-day grandeur. In the center of the courtyard sits a massive marble Quran stand dating back to the reign of Ulugh Beg.

Nearby cities

Samarkand

One of the oldest inhabited cities in Central Asia, famous for its Silk Road architecture.

Kattakurgan

One of the oldest centers of the Samarkand region with a large water reservoir.

Sentyab

A picturesque mountain village in the Nuratau Range, known for ecotourism, traditional stone houses, and ancient petroglyphs.

History & landmarks

Hazrat Khizr Mosque

A picturesque mosque on a hill in Samarkand, known for its beautiful wooden porch and views of the city.

Afrosiyob Museum

The museum displays artifacts from the ancient city of Marakanda, including fascinating frescoes from the Sogdian palace.

Nature

Zarafshan River

An important river that flows through Samarkand and Bukhara, acting as the lifeblood of these historic oasis cities.

More places

Siyob Bazaar

The largest and oldest market in Samarkand, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into life on the Silk Road.

Registan

The Registan was the heart of the ancient city of Samarkand, surrounded by three magnificent madrasahs.

Shah-i-Zinda

This necropolis in Samarkand consists of fascinating blue mausoleums built over centuries.

Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

The mausoleum of Timur is an architectural masterpiece and a model for the Taj Mahal.

Mausoleum of Prophet Daniel

A significant pilgrimage site in Samarkand, revered equally by Muslims, Christians, and Jews.

Samarkand Mulberry Plantations

Extensive plantations growing mulberry trees, whose leaves form the foundation for the region's famous silk production.

Samarkand Central Park

The green lung in the heart of the historic city, where locals relax under shady trees and by fountains.

Ulugh Beg Observatory

A masterpiece of medieval astronomy, where the most accurate star catalog of its time was created in the 15th century.