Photo: William Brumfield, 5/16/1972; Madrassa Shir-Dor in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Samarkand is one of the most important historic cities in Central Asia and was a major stop along the Silk Roads. Its convenient location in between major territories allowed for a flourishing trade sphere, religion, education, and culture. However, what Samarkand is perhaps best known for is its Islamic architecture. The unique tilework, domes, colors, and decorative Arabic calligraphy is what separates Samarkand’s unique architecture from anything else. Influenced by the Persians, Turkics, and Mongol cultures, the city continues to remain an important exmaple of culutrual exchange that shaped Islamic Eurasia.

Photo: William Brumfield, 5/14/1972; Poli-Kalian Ensemble in Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Bukhara is another major historic city in Uzbekistan. While Samarkand is primarily known for its grand and detailed tilework and architecture, Bukhara is known for its city center, education, and trading. The primary reason for people to travel to Bukhara was to study Islam, law, science, and literature. The buildings in bUkhara reflect the city’s role of educating and a place of meeting travelers along the Silk Roads. 

Photo: William Brumfield, 5/11/1972; Bazaar, Old Town in city of Tashkent