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Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in the world. For 2750 years it has experienced many things: rapid growth and natural decay, the flourishing of science and culture, the complete destruction and the gradual revival. Its story is full of events, as well as the history of Rome, Babylon, Alexandria and Constantinople.
Today the city with a population of half a million is the capital of Samarkand region. But in the minds of the global community Samarkand became one of the monuments of world history - in 2001 the city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The city is situated at an altitude of 702 meters above sea level. The climate is mild relative to other regions of Uzbekistan - cool. A large number of natural sources of water, which served as the appearance of the city, create comfortable living conditions in the hot summer days.
Ethnic composition of the population of Samarkand is mainly represented by the Uzbeks, Tajiks, Russian, Iranians and others. In the city they speak in three languages - Uzbek, Russian and Tajik.
The bulk of the population is Muslim. But in the city there also live Christians and Jews. Interestingly Mausoleum of Khoja Doniyor (Prophet Daniel), to which the representatives of all three religions come to pray.
Over 2000 years Samarkand was one of the main points on the Silk Road. Today, it is more a tourist town, which, nevertheless, develops the science and culture. A favorable geographical location contributes to the economy, like hundreds of years ago.
Across the city it is surrounded by numerous monuments of history, not far from where there are comfortable hotels, restaurants, summer cafes. In addition, on the outskirts of Samarkand there is an airport of international level, which receives flights from near and far abroad, including from Europe and Asia.
By the way, starting from October 18, 1996, this day is celebrated as the Day of Samarkand.
Youtube: Samarkand