Samarkand
Samarkand, located in Uzbekistan in the heart of Central Asia, is home to about 540,000 people. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, founded in the 6th century BC, and is an important historical and scientific center. The city features the famous Ulugh Beg Observatory with its impressive 40-meter sextant. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Spring or autumn are the best times to visit, when temperatures are pleasant and landmarks like mosques and madrasas are at their most magnificent.
