Tashkent is more than just the capital of Uzbekistan. It’s a city where behind the modern architecture and wide avenues lies a history that stretches back over two thousand years.
The first settlements on the site of present-day Tashkent date back to the 1st millennium BCE. In ancient times, it was known as Chach, and since the 10th century — Tashkent, which translates from Turkic as “Stone City.”
Today, Tashkent is a dynamic metropolis that blends modern life with deep-rooted traditions. The city continues to grow and transform, yet it never forgets its past. Here, centuries-old mosques stand alongside sparkling 21st-century shopping malls.
One of the most important historical sites is the Khast-Imam Complex, home to the 7th-century Quran of Caliph Uthman. The ensemble includes mosques, madrasahs, and mausoleums topped with distinctive turquoise domes. Nearby stands the Kukeldash Madrasah, built in the 16th century — the largest of its kind in the region still standing today. Surrounding it is the Old City, with narrow streets and traditional mudbrick homes, while the Chorsu Bazaar remains the heart of eastern trade, rich with the scents of spices, fresh bread, and dried fruits.
But Tashkent also represents the new face of Uzbekistan. In the city center, Magic City offers a fairy tale-like amusement park filled with towers, fountains, attractions, and a festive atmosphere. Not far away lies the ultra-modern Tashkent City district, featuring skyscrapers, wide alleys, and the capital’s trendiest shopping destination — Tashkent City Mall. Here, visitors can shop, watch movies, dine with city views, and enjoy the lifestyle of a new generation.
For a view from above, head to the Tashkent TV Tower, the tallest structure in Central Asia at 375 meters. It’s especially stunning at sunset, when the city lights begin to glow.
And of course, the Tashkent Metro — the first in Central Asia — deserves mention. Every station is a work of art: marble, mosaics, national ornaments, and modern design come together to make even an underground ride a memorable experience.
Tashkent is a city where contrasts come to life: ancient neighborhoods and sleek new buildings, sacred landmarks and buzzing shopping centers, market plov and signature cuisine in rooftop restaurants. It’s a place you’ll want to return to — to once again feel its rhythm, atmosphere, and warmth.
