Tashkent City is Uzbekistan's capital and largest city, a sprawling Silk Road crossroads of old-town madrasas, a vast blue-domed bazaar, Soviet-era monuments and a fast-changing modern centre.
Tashkent (Turkic 'stone city') grew as an oasis trading centre, was conquered by Arabs, Mongols and Timurids, and became the capital of Russian Turkestan in 1867. After 1966 it was rebuilt as the fourth-largest Soviet city.
Historical timeline
Key moments that shaped Tashkent City.
-
1
Chach settlement
The oasis around Tashkent is known as Chach (Shash), on trade routes between Sogdiana and the steppe.
-
2
Arab conquest
Arab armies bring Islam; Tashkent becomes a regional trading town.
-
3
Mongol invasion
Genghis Khan's army sacks the city.
-
4
Russian conquest
General Chernyayev's forces take Tashkent, which becomes the capital of Russian Turkestan.
-
5
Earthquake
A major earthquake destroys much of the old centre; the city is rebuilt with wide boulevards and a metro (opened 1977).
-
6
Independence
Uzbekistan declares independence with Tashkent as its capital.
Historical eras
The chapters of Tashkent City's past.
Historical sites
Places where Tashkent City's past comes alive.
Khast Imam Complex
Where: Old City (Eski Shahar)
Admission: Courtyards free; museum ~30,000–50,000 UZS (~$2.5–4.2)
Barak Khan Madrasa
Where: Old City (Eski Shahar)
Admission: Free
Kukeldash Madrasa
Where: Old City (Eski Shahar)
Admission: Exterior free
Muyi Muborak Library Museum
Where: Old City (Eski Shahar)
Admission: About 30,000–50,000 UZS (~$2.5–4.2)
State Museum of History of Uzbekistan
Where: City Centre
Admission: About 40,000–60,000 UZS (~$3.3–5)
Independence Square and Ezgulik Arch
Where: City Centre
Admission: Free
Amir Timur Square
Where: City Centre
Admission: Free
Museum of the Victims of Repression
Where: Yunusobod
Admission: Free or nominal
Museums
Curated collections that tell Tashkent City's story.
Historical tours
Guided experiences that bring history to life.