Saturday, March 7, 2020

The Registan, Samarkand

Uzbekistan (no, I didn't just make that name up) was the third country on our Central Asian itinerary. It is a beautiful nation with a rich history of architecture, art and culture, and will soon become the next 'must see' destination for travellers, if it hasn't already. We spent a couple days in Samarkand, an important city along the ancient Silk Road, and got to see the grandeur and splendour of the Registan, a square surrounded by three stunning Madrasahs (religious institutions for higher study). This was also the place where I got to knock off my bucket list item of bribing a police officer (more on the below). I don't have the words to describe the beauty, so will let the photos do the heavy lifting instead. Enjoy!

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We found the cover shot to the Lonely Planet Central Asia guide.

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As the sun was setting, this was the view from inside one of the three madrasah's courtyards. Love that subdued light.

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And after greasing the palm of a police officer, this was the view of the same courtyard from atop the otherwise off limits roof. Not really a spectacular view, but a novelty nonetheless.

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Pano from said off limits roof.

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Close up of one of the domes from the roof.

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Arts and crafts in the making.

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