Registan Square

Discover the Vibrant Heart of Samarkand: Registan Square

Tucked away in the ancient city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, lies a magnificent square that has been the epicenter of trade, culture, and history for centuries. Registan Square, also known as “Registan” or “Downtown”, is a mesmerizing destination that will leave you enchanted with its stunning architecture, rich heritage, and warm hospitality.

Where to Visit

  1. Madrasahs: The square is surrounded by three magnificent madrasahs (Islamic schools) - Ulughbek Madrasah, Sher-Dor Madrasah, and Tilya-Kori Madrasah. Each one is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, adorned with intricate tile work, ornate facades, and majestic domes.
  2. Mosques: Visit the beautiful mosques within the square, including the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the largest in Central Asia.
  3. Mausoleums: Pay respects at the mausoleums of famous scholars, poets, and rulers, such as Imam Bukhari and Ulughbek.

Where to Eat

  1. Local Cuisine: Indulge in traditional Uzbek dishes like plov (pilaf), shurpa (soup), and sambusa (samosas) at restaurants like Karim Bek or Platan.
  2. Street Food: Try local snacks like shashlik (skewers), lavash (flatbread), and sweet pastries from street vendors.

Where to Stay

  1. Hotels: Choose from a range of options, including luxury hotels like the Registan Plaza Hotel or boutique hotels like the Samarkand Hotel.
  2. Homestays: Experience local hospitality by staying with a family in their home, arranged through services like Airbnb or Booking.com.

Activities and Tips

  1. Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to delve deeper into the history and significance of Registan Square’s landmarks.
  2. Sunset Visit: Watch the square come alive during sunset, when the madrasahs are bathed in golden light.
  3. Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering mosques or madrasahs, and refrain from taking photos inside these sacred spaces.
  4. Haggling: Be prepared to haggle at local markets, like the bustling Chorsu Bazaar.
  5. Learn a Few Words: Greet locals with “Assalom” (hello) and “Rahmat” (thank you), which will earn you warm smiles.

Other Things of Interest

  1. Local Markets: Explore the vibrant Chorsu Bazaar, where you can find everything from spices to souvenirs.
  2. Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum: Visit the final resting place of Tamerlane, the founder of the Timurid Empire.
  3. Samarkand Museum: Discover the city’s rich history and cultural heritage at this informative museum.

Registan Square is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and culture, waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. With its stunning landmarks, delicious local cuisine, and warm hospitality, Samarkand will forever hold a special place in your heart.