Capital of Uzbekistan and Central Asia's leading metropolis, Tashkent is a city of contrasts where ultra-modern buildings sit harmoniously alongside ancestral structures. Renowned for its grand avenues, parks and fountains, this city isn't simply visited—it's discovered at your own pace. Unassuming at first glance, it gradually reveals its many facets to curious travelers.

History

Tashkent's history stretches back to the 2nd century BCE. The earliest settlement was built near the western foothills of the Tian Shan, along the banks of the Chirchiq River (a waterway in Uzbekistan). It was known as Yuni. Indeed, in the past, Uzbekistan's capital bore various names—Chach, Shash, and Binket—each holding fragments of its story. Only from the late 10th century onwards did the Karakhanids give the city the name Tashkent, a Turkic term meaning "stone village."

Originally, Tashkent wasn't a city proper. It was a fortified square citadel erected 8 km from the river, successively ruled by the Sakas, Sassanids and Hephthalites. In the 7th century, the center of what would become the Samanid capital shifted to the most fertile valley of the Chirchiq, a meeting point between sedentary Sogdians and nomadic Turks. By then, Islamic supremacy was already established. Thus, in the 9th century, fortifications were built to house mosques and provide resting points for caravans on their long journeys.

However, in 1219, the city fell under the dominion of the Mongols led by Genghis Khan. During this period, Tashkent languished. All fortifications were razed and most inhabitants fled to neighboring cities. It was under Timur's reign (Tamerlane), in the 14th and 15th centuries, that the city experienced a remarkable revival. Indeed, the ancient structures still visible today date from this era.

After the great conqueror's death, Tashkent came under the rule of sovereigns from various Central Asian states. Only in the mid-19th century, after Russia conquered all of Central Asia, did it regain independence. In 1930, it was elevated to capital of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic. Thereafter, the city developed at a breakneck pace until the tragic date of April 26, 1966, when it was devastated by a catastrophic earthquake. Fortunately, reconstruction aid poured in from across the Soviet Union, giving the city its present appearance.

Tashkent Today

Tashkent is a metropolis of many dimensions. It's one of the few cities where past and present coexist in perfect symbiosis, giving visitors the sensation of inhabiting two eras simultaneously. Moreover, its monumental architecture, vast squares, numerous gardens and fountains, broad boulevards lined with plane trees and poplars—all invite magnificent walks whose memory lingers long after.

The city is also celebrated for its covered markets, "the bazaars," among the city's most vibrant spaces. The most renowned are the Chorsu bazaar, the Alay bazaar, and the Farkhadsk food bazaar (Farhod). Not to mention that every weekend across the city's numerous squares, amateur musicians and dancers in national costumes perform dazzling shows.

Among the sites not to miss during your stay in Tashkent, you'll find:

• Amir Timur Square
• Amir Timur Museum
• Independence Square
• The Sheikh Khovendi Takhour architectural complex
• The residence of Grand Duke N.K. Romanov
• Alisher Navoi Park
• Alisher Navoi Opera House
• Earthquake Memorial
• The old quarter's narrow streets
• ...

When to Go?

Tashkent enjoys a continental climate with four distinct seasons. The most popular time for travelers is the dry season between May and September. During this period, days are sunny and temperatures are generally pleasant. It's also possible to visit during spring (March–April) and autumn (October–November) when the climate is mild. The same applies to winter (December–February). Though temperatures hover around freezing, seeing the city blanketed in snow is simply remarkable.

Tashkent is easily accessible by both land and air.

By road, it's located less than 900 km from any other capital in the region. Furthermore, roads are in good condition except for the route to Kyrgyzstan.

By air, it maintains regular connections with sixteen foreign countries outside the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States). Moreover, its airport, the first to open in the region, remains the largest and most active.

Among the airlines offering regular flights to Tashkent, you can choose from:

• Uzbekistan Airways
• Iran Air
• Turkish Airlines
• Asiana Airlines (South Korea)