Tashkent, the bustling capital of Uzbekistan, is not only a modern metropolis but also a custodian of ancient Central Asian heritage. The Old City, or «Eski Shahar» as it is locally known, is a testament to this rich history. Here, amidst the labyrinth of narrow lanes, stand residential houses that hark back to the late 19th century, their walls whispering tales of a bygone era.
The Old City is a treasure trove of medieval architectural wonders, including the revered Kukeldash Madrasah and the esteemed buildings of the Khast-Imam Complex. This historic quarter, located in the northwestern part of Tashkent, was the original heart of the city before the establishment of the Turkestan general-governorship in 1865. The term «Old City» emerged during the era of tsarist colonialism, a time when Russian authorities were busy crafting a new urban landscape. The Anhor channel served as an informal demarcation line, separating the old from the new.
Architectural relics in the Old City predominantly date back to the latter half of the 15th century and the dawn of the 16th century, a period marked by the rule of the Shaybanids. Under the Kokand Khanate, Tashkent was fortified with a moat and clay battlements stretching nearly 20 kilometers, punctuated by 12 gates. Sadly, neither the wall nor the gates have survived to the present day.
Tours in Uzbekistan
