population: 0.618 million

extension: 108.52 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Samarkand, Uzbekistan and interested in visiting museums, a great place to start would be the State Museum of Amir Timur. This museum features exhibits on the life and legacy of the famous Central Asian conqueror, as well as examples of art and artifacts from the Timurid period.

Other museums in Samarkand that might be of interest include the Afrasiyab Museum (which focuses on the ancient city of Afrasiyab), the Ulugh Beg Observatory Museum (which explores the history of astronomy in Central Asia), and the Institute of Archaeology Museum (which showcases ancient artifacts discovered in the region).

If you are looking for similar types of museums in the area, you might consider visiting the State Museum of History of Temurids in Tashkent or the Karakalpakstan State Museum of Art in Nukus.

Food

Samarkand, Uzbekistan is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine that reflects the region's cultural heritage. Here are some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Samarkand:

1. Plov (pilaf): A rice-based dish cooked with lamb or beef, carrots, onions, and spices. Plov is considered the national dish of Uzbekistan and comes in many regional variations.

2. Shashlik (kebab): Grilled meat (usually lamb) on skewers, served with bread and salad. This dish is commonly found in street markets and restaurants.

3. Lagman: A hearty noodle soup made with beef or lamb broth, vegetables, and thick handmade noodles. It's a popular dish for cold weather.

4. Manty: Steamed dumplings filled with lamb or beef and onions. Manty is typically served with sour cream and eaten as a main dish.

5. Samsa: A flaky pastry filled with meat (usually lamb), onions, and spices. Samsa is a popular snack food and can be found in bakeries and street vendors.

6. Non: Uzbek-style bread, which is often baked in traditional clay ovens called tandirs. Non is usually round and flat with a crispy crust and soft interior.

7. Halva: A sweet dessert made from ground sesame seeds, sugar, and nuts. Halva can be found in many flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, and pistachio.

These are just a few of the many delicious dishes you can try in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Don't forget to also try the local teas and melons, which are famous throughout Central Asia.

Activities

Samarkand, Uzbekistan is a city rich in history and culture, and there are many fun activities that locals enjoy. Here are some recommendations:

1. Visit the Siyob Bazaar: This bustling marketplace is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Here you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, textiles, and souvenirs.

2. Explore the Registan: The Registan is a stunning complex of three madrasas (Islamic schools) that date back to the 15th and 17th centuries. Locals love to come here to admire the intricate tilework and soak up the atmosphere.

3. Sample local cuisine: Uzbek cuisine is known for its hearty stews, grilled meats, and savory pastries. Locals enjoy gathering with friends and family to share a meal at one of Samarkand's many restaurants or cafes.

4. Attend a traditional music performance: Music has long been an important part of Uzbek culture, and locals love to attend performances of traditional instruments such as the dutar, tanbur, and chang.

5. Take a stroll through the Shah-i-Zinda complex: This beautiful necropolis features a series of ornate mausoleums and tombs. Locals often come here to pay their respects and appreciate the intricate tilework and calligraphy.

6. Visit a hammam (traditional bathhouse): Hammams have been a part of Uzbek culture for centuries, and locals still enjoy visiting them for relaxation and socializing. Some popular hammams in Samarkand include the Khoja Abdi Darunee and the Chor Minor Hammam.