After breakfast, the day will start with a drive to Samarkand where you will have a city tour. The history, culture and architecture of Samarkand are really worthy of attention. Being one of the most ancient cities on the earth, this «city of famous shadows» witnessed many historical events and shakes. According to some historical data, it was founded in the VII century BC. First, you will see the main square of the city – Registan with three madrassas (Islamic schools): Madrassah of Ulugbek (15th c), Madrassah Sherdor and Madrassah Tilla Kori(15th-17th cc). The further program includes visits to Gur Emir Mausoleum – a burial vault of Timurids dynasty(14th-15th cc), Bibi Khanim Mosque (15th c) – the biggest medieval building in the city, Mausoleum of Khoja Daniyar (Saint Daniel)14th c, Museum of Afrosiab and Ulugbek Observatory (15th c). Ulugbek calculated the length of the sidereal year to 365 days, 5 hours, 49 minutes, and 15 seconds, which was even more accurate than the calculations of Copernicus 88 years later. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant. After lunch, you will visit the carpet factory and oriental bazaar – Siab, where you can make shopping and see the ancient colourful market. At the central bazaar, you’ll have a chance to enjoy the tastes and aroma of local exotic products. Be sure to buy Samarkand national round bread (non). The bazaar offers bright fruits and vegetables, dried fruit, spices, local snacks, sweet cakes, chill tea, as well as local handicraft. Dinner will be organized in a local restaurant.
Overnight: Hotel in Samarkand
Duration: 4 hours 30 min
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Length: 307 km
