Besides the mosque, where else can you go in Samarkand?

Everyone's image of Samarkand seems to be all blue domes and mosaic mosques. But if you have time, the city actually has some interesting little corners that offer a different perspective on Samarkand.

⛪️Church of St. Alexius Metropolitan of Moscow
This is a typical Russian Orthodox church, with yellow walls and a green roof, and stands out beautifully amidst the greenery.

⛪️Roman Catholic Parish of St. John the Baptist
Compared to the former, this Catholic church is more minimalist.
The stained glass and wooden structure inside exude a gentle, timeless feel.

📖Chinese Garden
You'll pass by it on your way to the city center.
In the center stands a statue of Confucius.
Seeing familiar faces in a foreign land always brings a strange sense of familiarity.
At that moment, you suddenly realize how far Chinese culture has come.

🏣Museum of Friendship between Uzbekistan and China
Right next to the garden, it's a Russian-style building, formerly the Samarkand branch of the Bank of Russia-China.
There aren't many exhibits inside, so I didn't go in specifically to explore.
But the name itself conveys the symbolic meaning of "friendship."

⛲️Peoples' Friendship Square
A square where locals stroll and relax.
In its center is a statue of the great Uzbek poet Navoi.
The square is surrounded by government offices and theater buildings.

🚗Lada
Throughout Samarkand's streets and alleys, you can see vintage Ladas almost every few steps.
This classic Soviet-era car has become a "living fossil" of the city.
Taking a photo with one truly feels like something out of an old European movie.

🛍Siyob Bazaar
Next to the Bibi Hanem Mosque, it's one of the largest markets in the area. You can buy dried fruits, spices, honey, carpets, and colorful pottery.
I especially love the lively atmosphere.
The stall owners will smile and invite you to try their food, and I can easily overbuy.

🏫 Samarkand Railway Station
This is the most beautiful train station I've ever seen in Uzbekistan.
The tall columns and stained-glass windows
glisten brilliantly in the sunlight.
If you're leaving by train,
I recommend arriving a little early and spending a few extra minutes admiring this artistic building that commemorates "Farewell to Samarkand."

#hellohalloween #historicallandmarks #localguides #historicalsites #cooltravelexperiences #worldheritage #travelinspiration