The Republic of Uzbekistan is the pearl of the East, located in the heart of Central Asia.
The country is very picturesque: on both sides it is framed by the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers, which originate in the Aral Sea. The majestic Tien Shan mountains rise in the north-west of Uzbekistan, the peaks of the Pamir-Alai are whitening in the south-east.
Republic of Uzbekistan: general information
The geographical map of Uzbekistan resembles a piece of a chess horse. The climate of the country is sharply continental, changing when moving from north to south.
Uzbekistan is characterized by sudden changes in temperature and low humidity. The average summer temperature is +35 +40 C, in winter the air cools down to 0-3 C. The most comfortable weather is set in autumn, when the air warms up to + 15 C. At this time, the landscape of Uzbekistan is mesmerizing: soft sunlight shimmers on golden domesmosques and illuminates the autumn leaves. Aromas of oriental spices and fruit essences float in the air.
The map of Uzbekistan consists of 14 regions. The fertile Ferghana Valley is located in the Fergana region. It is the basis of agriculture in Central Asia: rice, cotton, legumes, vegetables and fruits grow here. Some crops are harvested 2 or sometimes 3 times a year.
Uzbekistan is distinguished by its varied oriental cuisine. One pilaf has about 500 cooking options. Local dishes are rich in vegetables and fragrant oriental spices.
The state language of the state is Uzbek. It belongs to the group of Turkic languages with various dialects. Tashkent is phonetically correct. The language of Tashkent is recognized as the literary Uzbek language.
To get a complete picture of the country, we recommend visiting Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara in the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Tashkent: the capital of which country?
If you look at the state from space, you will see a bright point - Tashkent. Geographically, the city is located in the east of the country.
Tashkent is the capital of which country? It is the capital of Uzbekistan and one of the most beautiful cities in the East.
The capital of the republic is the center of economic, political and cultural life of the country. The map of Tashkent is replete with historical monuments and squares. Thousands of tourists from all over the world visit Tashkent to admire the localsights, look at the oriental bazaar and taste the delicious Uzbek pilaf. The city attracts history buffs with its unique past for Eastern civilization.
In our article we will "travel" to interesting places in Tashkent
Geographic location and climate
Tashkent is located in a green plain on the picturesque Chirchik River.
In the east you can see the mountains of the Tien Shan, and in the west the yellow steppes go beyond the horizon. The area of the city is 30 thousand hectares.
Tashkent has a sharply continental climate with a lot of sunny days. In summer, the air warms up to + 40 C, and in winter the temperature drops to -3 - 5 C. Spring in Tashkent is early: already in March, the first grass begins to turn green. Autumn comes at the end of September. This season is characterized by comfortable air temperature (from 13 to 15 C).
Historical background: from a small oasis to the era of Amir Timur
Before becoming the largest city in Central Asia with a developed infrastructure, Tashkent went from a small green oasis to a large metropolis.
The good natural conditions of this place have always attracted people. The first settlers came to the eastern part of Uzbekistan 600 thousand years ago. This is evidenced by archaeological excavations carried out by historians.
In the first centuries B. C. Arabs came to the territory of the capital of Uzbekistan. The predecessor of Tashkent was called "Chach", in Arabic - "Shash".
The name "Chach" is mentioned by Iranian historians in 262 BC. e. The name of the city was carved in the forminscriptions on the sacred "Kaaba of Zoroaster".
8 century AD - this is the period of the next seizure of the territories of Central Asia by the Arabs.
In 712 Samarkand was besieged, and from 713 to 719 Arab troops attacked Chach. The invaders failed to completely conquer Chach, but due to constant attacks on its central part, a serious fire broke out. Unfortunately, the flames destroyed most of the historic buildings. The city known as "Chach" ceased to exist.
10 to 13 century AD the territory of Uzbekistan is in the power of the Karakhanids.
It was during this period of time that the surviving residents restored the city that had suffered from the fire. The first name of the "rise from the ruins" was Binket. To the question: "Tashkent is the capital of which country?" you can answer in detail: "Uzbekistan, from the 11th century."
From the Epoch of Amir Timur to our time
Amir Timur (Timur the Great, Tamerlane) is a great Central Asian commander, known for his victorious campaigns in Central Asia. Timur was a man of sharp mind, spoke different languages and knew military affairs very well. Tamerlane is an important and revered figure in Central Asia, sometimes even mystical: when archaeologists opened the grave of Timur, the Great Patriotic War began.
Tamerlane conquered Tashkent in the 14th century: he skillfully removed the Chingizid dynasty from the throne and came to power. It is clear that Timur did not limit himself to Tashkent alone, he conquered territories north of the Syr Darya - Dasht-i Kipchak. Until the 16th century, the capital of modern Uzbekistan was in the hands of the descendantsTamerlane.
The reign of the Timur family ended in the 16th century - Tashkent with the surrounding territories became part of the Bukhara Khanate.
Starting from the 17th century, the connection of Tashkent with the Russian Empire was intensified. First of all, this affected economic relations: for the first time, a trade caravan was sent from Orenburg.
With the entry of Tashkent into the Russian Empire, a new stage in the development of the city began. Railways were built, industrial enterprises appeared, libraries and museums were opened. The population of the city has increased significantly. By the beginning of the 20th century, Tashkent had become one of the largest cities in Central Asia.
After the 1966 earthquake, the city was completely rebuilt and to this day is the largest center of science and culture. It is due to the Soviet heritage that Tashkent became the star of the East. Uzbekistan would not attract so many tourists if it were not for the well-groomed capital.
Tashkent: the capital, photos of sights
In terms of the number of cultural monuments, Tashkent is the absolute champion of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Photos of the central regions amaze with oriental splendor. Stores of famous brands of clothing and cosmetics are adjacent to historical buildings. Despite the fact that Tashkent is an eastern city, the Louis Vuitton or Escada lineup is fully represented.
The appearance of modern Tashkent was significantly affected by a serious earthquake in 1966. Many historical buildings were destroyed and then rebuilt.
Despite the natural disaster, the capital of Uzbekistan remained richhistorical monuments of different eras. An inquisitive tourist will find both ancient monuments from the time of Zoroastrianism and Contemporary Art Centers. We list the most beautiful places in Tashkent:
- Khast-Imam Square.
- Chorsu Bazaar - a huge oriental market!
- Friday Mosque.
- The Mausoleum of Yunus Khan is a monument of the Timurid era.
- Independence Square.
- Botanical Garden.
- Japanese garden.
- The State Museum of Arts of Uzbekistan.
Khast-Imam Square
Most people associate the capital of Uzbekistan with the historical complex Khast-Imam. This is not surprising, since the square is known not only for the most beautiful monuments of Eastern civilization, but also for important historical events for Uzbekistan.
The square is the historical center of Tashkent: most of the buildings were preserved after the 1966 earthquake. About 50% of the cultural heritage of the capital of the republic is concentrated on its territory: the Barak Khan Madrasah, the Tilla-Sheikh mosque, the mausoleum of Kaffal Shashi, the Islamic Institute. Al-Bukhari and the Library of Oriental Manuscripts.
Each map of Tashkent contains a photo of this unique monument of oriental culture.
Barak Khan Madrasah is a monument of medieval culture, built in 1502 by order of Barak Khan. A building was erected on the burial site of the grandson of Suyunij Khan and one of his relatives. It consists of two mausoleums - the Nameless and the mausoleum of Suyunij Khan. Made of beige stone, the complex is decoratedoriental molding and a large azure dome.
Madrese is a free educational institution that serves as a school in the Islamic world. If a person successfully completes it, then he has the right to go further to the University. The first madrasahs were built next to mosques so that people could combine the study of ordinary subjects with reading the Koran.
Tilla Sheikh Mosque
This is the religious center of Uzbekistan. It is considered one of the main for the capital of the republic. The literal translation of the name is the Mosque of the Golden Sheikh (was built in 1856 by Mirza Ahmed Kushbegi).
Consists of a winter building, summer courtyard, utility room and a small library. According to legend, it contains the hair of the Prophet Muhammad.
At the Islamic Institute. Al-Bukhari is taught by talented students from the regions of the country and the city of Tashkent. Uzbekistan cannot boast of a high level of education, but students of the Institute. Al-Bukhari is the exception to the rule.
The educational institution trains specialists in the field of history, philosophy and religious studies. Students of the Institute must study Islamic law.
The complex owes its existence to the first imam of Tashkent, Kaffal Shashi. He was a famous medieval scholar: he knew the Koran and Islamic law perfectly.
The general view of the square is fascinating: it is made in azure color, and the decor elements contain traditional oriental modeling. When a person first comes to the square, there is a feeling of falling into an oriental fairy tale!
Chorsu Bazaar
Chorsu is the oldest market in the city, located in the north-west of Tashkent.
During the Middle Ages, it was the largest bazaar in Central Asia, located on the Silk Road. Most merchants carrying exotic goods such as silk, Chinese porcelain and precious stones to the West chose this place as a staging post.
Today Chorsu is a huge oriental bazaar under an azure dome. Inside the pavilions you will find the most beautiful jewelry, national carpets and fine ceramics. Next to them rise stalls with fragrant fruits, a variety of dried fruits and spicy spices. Uzbekistan is famous for the latter. We recommend choosing a few packets of saffron, black pepper and ginger. There are no such spices as in Tashkent!
Friday Mosque (Juma Mosque)
The third largest mosque in Uzbekistan. Its dome offers a beautiful view of the city of Tashkent.
The Juma Mosque owes its appearance to the medieval Sheikh Khoja Akhrar. He was a distant relative of the Prophet Muhammad. Being a we althy and influential person, the Sheikh fully financed the construction of the most beautiful mosque in Tashkent.
A person of any religion can enter the mosque. Women should wear a headscarf and cover their knees and elbows.
Yunus Khan Mausoleum
The most beautiful monument of the Timurid era. It was built at the end of the 15th century in honor of the then ruling Yunus Khan (considered one ofdescendants of Genghis Khan). The monument was built with the money of the sons of Khan, after his death.
The main element of decor is majestic stone columns. Stalactites hang fancifully over the arch. The entrance door is very beautiful - it is distinguished by elegant molding, which is popular among Islamic sculptors of the Middle Ages.
Independence Square
Another name for the square is Mustakillik Square. It is the main square of Uzbekistan. It houses government buildings - the Cabinet of Ministers and the Senate. In front of the entrance to the square, you will see the arch of Good and Good Aspirations, decorated with sculptures of graceful storks. In its very center stands a bronze ball. You will also see a sculpture of a young woman with a child in her arms - this is how Uzbeks portray a happy mother.
The northern part of the square is known for the Alley of Glory and Memory. It is made in the form of a park path, on the sides of which there are 14 steles (the same number of regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan) with books in memory of the victims of World War II. At the end of the alley, a sculpture of a grieving mother rises and a fire burns.
Independence Square is loved by locals and tourists alike. The former like to walk along it on weekends and public holidays. Traditionally, this historic place is visited by newlyweds.
Botanical Garden
A unique natural monument in the very center of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The photo of the Botanical Garden is replete with picturesque views and exotic plants.
On an area of about 68 hectares, there is a huge nature reserve with 4,000 plants. On the territory of the garden you will find representatives of flora from different parts of the globe: from Europe, from North America, from East and Central Asia and from the Far East of Russia.
The Botanical Garden of Tashkent is recognized as the largest in the Central Asian region. The territory of the reserve is conditionally divided into 5 squares - depending on the homeland of the plant. Rare plants grow here that you are unlikely to find in other botanical gardens. For example, black birch, white oak or blue ash…
The garden is amazing in summer: here you will find salvation from the heat under spreading metasequoias or on one of the benches next to the pond. Yes, and do something useful for the respiratory system: herbs release healing essential oils into the air.
But nothing compares to the autumn botanical garden of Tashkent: the palette of colorful leaves delights. And they fall, rustle underfoot, cling to clothes … This sight calms and pacifies.
Japanese garden
In addition to architectural monuments, the city of Tashkent is famous for its beautiful Japanese garden.
The opening of the park happened relatively recently - in 2001. People have a unique opportunity to travel for a while to the Land of the Rising Sun thanks to the mutual initiative of the governments of Uzbekistan and Japan.
The garden is a green recreation area on the territory of a large metropolis. Here you will find everything you need for a relaxing holiday - from a variety of Japanese plants andending with tea houses.
Traditionally, everyone who wanders into a Japanese garden should definitely turn a Japanese drum (so that the Gods know about his good intentions) and drink a cup of real Japanese tea.
Here you will see the wedding ceremony - the garden is dearly loved by happy newlyweds.
The atmosphere of the park is conducive to calmness, peace and contemplation. Here, away from the noise and tourists, you will have the opportunity to understand the essence of Eastern philosophy.
Contemporary Art Center
In addition to luxurious mosques and picturesque gardens, the city of Tashkent is not deprived of contemporary art.
One of the places where you can enjoy the work of young artists is the Center for Contemporary Art. It hosts exhibitions of contemporary Uzbek and foreign artists.
In the Center you will also see works of art of the twentieth century - paintings and antiques. About 50 interesting shows are held annually.
Thematic lectures are held here for students and everyone.
Project leaders print posters and even publish their own newspaper!
The place will appeal to modern youth and lovers of new trends in art.
What to bring from Tashkent?
Shopping in Tashkent is a separate topic that can be talked about for quite some time. We will try to briefly describe what is worth bringing from the capital of the republic and where to buy it.
To have time to go shopping and choose your favorite souvenirs and things, one day will be enough.
In Tashkent you can find everything: from clotheswell-known brands and ending with authentic national jewelry.
For fans of Kenzo, D&G and Calvin Klein, there are Snob's Platinum and Mir Store boutiques.
Also, Mega-Planet shopping center with mass brands of clothes, shoes and cosmetics is presented in Tashkent. On the top floor there is a cinema with films in Russian. In Mega-Planet you can have a tasty and cheap lunch or dinner. During the summer season, it is worth taking freshly squeezed juices and local ice cream. For lovers of sweets, there is a department with oriental sweets.
Now let's move on to the markets. On them you can find those things that are typical only for Tashkent. These include:
- oriental sweets;
- spicy spices;
- dried fruits;
- national Uzbek headdress - skullcap;
- pottery;
- women's shoes and handbags;
- souvenirs
- carpets.
We recommend visiting the Chorsu Bazaar - this way you will kill two birds with one stone: see one of the sights of Tashkent and buy everything you need. On Chorsu, the choice of souvenirs, spices and dried fruits is amazing - what you will not see at this huge bazaar under the azure dome.
Remember that trading in the Eastern markets is appropriate!
Tashkent on the world map is just a small point of the Asian continent. But if you become interested in the history of this "point", you will get a lot of printed book pages. The history of eastern civilization is unthinkable without the city of Tashkent and the most interesting historical characters, one way or another connected with it.
If your childonce he asks: “Tashkent is the capital of which country?”, then feel free to read this article to him.
Today Tashkent is a large metropolis with a very interesting past. You can read a lot about it, study the history of its sights and watch movies. But the best thing is to one day visit the Republic of Uzbekistan and its amazing capital.
