Samarkand Essentials Walking Tour

Shakhi-Zinda Ensemble – (IX) situated on southeastern mound of Afrosiab. This architectural complex consists of 44 tombs in more than 20 mausoleums. The greatest significance of Shah E Zinda is that he was the First cousin of the Prophet Muhammad and resembles the Prophet the most.

Historical monument (mid-19th century); associated with the name of the legendary Islamic prophet Khizr. The building was erected on the site of an ancient mosque (according to the inscription on the mihrab, in 1855). The monument is located opposite the Shah-i-Zinda complex on a hill.

A visit to any city would not be complete without a visit to the market or bazaar. It is here you get a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals as they buy their goods. Lots to choose from so I am guessing everyone can find something to buy!

Bibi-Khanym Mosque – named after the wife of Temur and built between 1399-1404 – is one of best-known architectural attractions of Central Asia. The Mosque was erected on Timur's order after his combat of Delhi. The Minaret of the Mosque was supposed to be the tallest.

Across from the Bibi-Khanym Mosque is Bibi-Khanym’s surprisingly plain 14th-century mausoleum, home to five tombs and some lovely interior painted stalactites

Registan square became the city square when life in Afrosiab stopped. Since that time Registan was reconstructed several times. Today it is surrounded by the three medreses Ulugbek, Sherdor and Tillokori.

The Rukhabad Mausoleum, built by order of Amir Timur in 1380, was erected over the grave of Islamic theologian and mystic Sheikh Burhaneddin Sagaradzhi, much esteemed by Timur’s contemporaries.

Gur Emir Mausoleum – As a conqueror there are few that are Tamerlane’s equal, both in territory and legacy left. Today one can visit his tomb in the beautifully reconstructed Gur-Emir Mausoleum (1404-1405, 15-17 centuries) and reflect on his life while looking at the largest piece of jade (greenstone) in the world.