 Samarkand, the second largest city in Uzbekistan, is as old as Babylon or Rome. The history of the city is about 2,500 years old!
In the 14th century, Timur founded the Timurid Empire by conquering West, South, and Central Asia. He made Samarkand the capital of his empire. That’s why several important historical places related to the empire are in this city.
 The most famous landmark of Samarkand is Bibi-Khanym Mosque. It was built using precious stones by Timur in 1399. In order to carry the stones, about 90 elephants were employed! Another famous historical site in this city is Gur Emir Mausoleum where Timur was buried. Along with him, his two sons and grandson were laid in peace in this Islamic monumental tomb.
 The city is also best known for its central position on the Silk Road. It was the meeting point of merchants from China, Persia, and India. When a renowned explorer Marco Polo visited the Silk Road, he described Samarkand as “a very large and splendid city” in his book, The Travel.
You Know What?
Do you know what people call Samarkand? They call Samarkand the “city of blue domes” because there are many blue-tiled domes. |
Staff reporter Young Kim
(youngkim@timescore.co.kr)
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