Tashkent, the modernizing capital of Uzbekistan
Tashkent, the capital city where modernization is progressing and skyscrapers line the skyline.
It is considered a major city in Central Asia with well-maintained large roads and a population of approximately 2.5 million.
Tashkent boasts an underground subway system, making it easy for residents and visitors to move around the city.
Thanks to the water flow from the Syrdarya River, Tashkent is adorned with greenery and numerous squares. In the modern area known as Tashkent City, there is a construction boom of high-rise buildings.
Meanwhile, the old city area features Islamic madrasah, large bazaars, and landscapes reminiscent of Central Asia.
Tourist attractions include Independence Square, madrasah, and the rapidly developing the “Tashkent City” with its popular boutiques and cafes among the youth.
Attractions in Tashkent
The Navoi Theatre
The Navoi Theater was built in 1947 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the birth of Uzbekistan’s great poet, Alisher Navoi.
During the major earthquake in 1966, the city suffered a significant blow, but the theater stood as one of the few buildings that remained intact at that time.
The beautiful architecture extends beyond the exterior, featuring intricate decorations in the interior.
The three-story opera hall’s corridors are themed after various regions of Uzbekistan, with each corridor designed by prominent architects, artists, and painters representing different regions. The reliefs, especially, exhibit breathtaking beauty.
Similarly, the interior of the opera hall is adorned with gold-leafed reliefs covering the massive ceiling lighting fixtures and the dividers on each floor, creating a remarkably beautiful ambiance.
Barak-Khan Madrasah & Hazrati Imam Mosque
A theological school and mosque built in the 16th century.
The world’s oldest Quran is exhibited in the madrasah located to the southwest of the mosque.
The interior of the theological school has been transformed into a souvenir shop, making it a recommended place to buy handicrafts in Tashkent.
Chorsu Bazaar
The largest bazaar in Tashkent, offering everything from groceries and daily necessities to clothing and traditional fabrics. It is so large that it can be said to have everything.
Conveniently located near the subway station, it is easy for shopping.
Inside the dome, groceries are sold, and it is a recommended place for those who cannot buy Uzbekistan’s traditional fabric “Adras” in Margilan. You can also purchase souvenirs such as pottery.
Please note that many shops are closed on Mondays, so caution is advised.
Central Asian Plov Centre
If you want to witness the making of the traditional dish “plov” in a large cauldron, then Central Asian Plov Centre is the place to be.
A truly astonishing sight unfolds as meat, carrots, and rice are generously poured into enormous cauldrons, capturing the scene of plov preparation in photographs.
The largest cauldron is a staggering 3 tons, and they use 4 to 5 cauldrons to prepare 1-ton portions of plov. The best time to visit is just before noon.
Tashkent Metro
The Tashkent Metro, constructed during the Soviet era, runs through the city and is known for its thematic design at each station. Decorations corresponding to the themes, coupled with artistic elements, have gained international recognition.
Until recently, photography inside the metro was prohibited, but restrictions have been lifted, allowing tourists to enjoy the decorative aspects of each station while experiencing a subway ride.
It is important to note that photography is still prohibited near the metro entrances and elevators.
