# REGISTAN SQUARE 8 
Registan Square is the heart of Samarkand, surrounded by three magnificent madrasas โ Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Kari โ that showcase the architectural grandeur of Timurid Iran. The square was a central hub for education, commerce, and political activity during the 15th and 16th centuries.
Its intricate tile work, monumental structures, and vast open space make it one of the most iconic landmarks in Central Asia.
Square ๐ World Heritage: since 2001
by Kraftabbas / CC BY-SA 4.0
# GURI AMIR 7 
Guri Amir is the mausoleum of Timur (Tamerlane), an architectural masterpiece that blends Persian and Timurid styles. The building is renowned for its grand dome, elaborate blue tiles, and the impressive use of light and space in its interior.
It was originally designed to be the final resting place for Timurโs family, but later became his own tomb after his death in 1405.
Mausoleum ๐ World Heritage: since 2001
by Bgag / CC BY-SA 3.0
# BIBI-KHANYM MOSQUE 6
Shah-i-Zinda is a complex of mausoleums that contains the tombs of royalty, saints, and scholars from the Timurid era. Known for its stunning blue-tiled facades and intricate architecture, the site is believed to be the burial place of Kusam ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad.
The vibrant colors and atmospheric layout make it one of Samarkand's most revered religious sites.
Mosque ๐ World Heritage: since 2001
by ะจัั ัะฐั ะกะฐัะดะธะตะฒ / CC BY-SA 4.0
# SHAH-I-ZINDA 6 
Shah-i-Zinda is a complex of mausoleums that contains the tombs of royalty, saints, and scholars from the Timurid era. Known for its stunning blue-tiled facades and intricate architecture, the site is believed to be the burial place of Kusam ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad.
The vibrant colors and atmospheric layout make it one of Samarkand's most revered religious sites.
Complex of Mausoleums ๐ World Heritage: since 2001
by Bgag / CC BY-SA 3.0
# ULUGH BEG MADRASA 6 
The Ulugh Beg Madrasa is a prominent Islamic educational institution built by Ulugh Beg, a Timurid ruler and astronomer. It is renowned for its stunning facade, grand entrance, and ornate tile work, symbolizing the scholarly and cultural renaissance under Ulugh Beg's patronage.
Madrasa (on the Registan) ๐ World Heritage: since 2001
by Arian Zwegers / CC BY-SA 2.0
# ULUGH BEG OBSERVATORY 6
Ulugh Beg Observatory, built in the 15th century by the famed astronomer Ulugh Beg, was one of the most advanced observatories of its time.
The site was used for astronomical research and housed a giant astrolabe to measure the positions of stars. Its excavation has provided valuable insights into the advanced scientific achievements of the Timurid era.
Ancient Observatory ๐ World Heritage: since 2001
by Bgag / CC BY-SA 3.0
# AFRASIYAB MUSEUM AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE 5 
The Afrasiab Museum and archaeological site provide an in-depth exploration of ancient Samarkand, dating back to the 7th century BCE.
Artifacts uncovered at the site shed light on the cityโs early history, including its role as the capital of the Sogdian civilization. Visitors can explore the museum's collections and the remains of the ancient city, offering a fascinating window into the past.
Museum and Archaeological Site ๐ World Heritage Site: since 2001
by Bgag / CC BY-SA 4.0
# TILYA-KORI MADRASA 5
The Tilya-Kori Madrasa, located in the heart of Samarkand, is renowned for its magnificent gilded interior, which adorns both its mosque and its surrounding courtyard.
Built under the reign of Sultan Husayn Baykara, it stands as the last madrasa constructed in the Registan Square complex, blending elements of Persian, Central Asian, and Islamic architectural styles.
Medrasa (on the Registan) ๐ World Heritage: since 2001
by Bobyrr / CC BY-SA 4.0
# SHER-DOR MADRASA 5
The Sher-Dor Madrasa, distinguished by its striking lion motifs, is a unique example of Central Asian architecture that combines traditional Timurid elements with an innovative approach.
Built in the early 17th century, it features vibrant mosaics and an eye-catching image of a lion, a departure from Islamic iconography. Situated on the Registan Square, it continues to captivate visitors with its historical significance and artistry.
Madrasa (on the Registan) ๐ World Heritage Site: since 2001
by Soham Banerjeederivative / CC BY-SA 2.0
#10 | Siyob Bazaar 5
The Siyob Bazaar, a bustling market at the base of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, offers a vibrant glimpse into Samarkand's daily life and commercial heritage.
Lined with stalls selling spices, fresh produce, textiles, and local crafts, the bazaar remains an important cultural and social hub for locals and travelers.
by Shuhrataxmedov / CC BY-SA 3.0
#11 | Presidentโs Tomb 5
The Presidentโs Tomb, located in a quiet part of Samarkand, serves as the burial place of key political figures from Uzbekistan.
The mausoleum is notable for its elegant design, which incorporates traditional Islamic motifs with modern architectural sensibilities.
by Visola Tangirova / CC BY-SA 4.0
#12 | Hazrat Khizr Mosque 5
The Hazrat Khizr Mosque, perched on a hill above Samarkand, is dedicated to the legendary figure of Khizr, known for guiding travelers. The mosque's serene location and beautiful architectural details offer a peaceful escape while showcasing a blend of Timurid and Persian influences.
by Kremlin.ru / CC BY-SA 4.0
SHAHRISABZ 6
Shahrisabz, the birthplace of Timur, is a city brimming with historical significance, offering a glimpse into the legacy of one of the greatest conquerors of the medieval world.
The city is home to monumental structures such as the Ak-Saray Palace, whose grand facade still hints at its once immense grandeur, and the Dorus Saodat complex, where Timur's ancestors and descendants were buried. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shahrisabz is a testament to the architectural and cultural achievements of the Timurid era.
City ๐ World Heritage: since 2000 | Distance from Samarkand: 92 km
by Alaexis / CC BY-SA 2.5