Photo credit: www.cntraveler.com
Exploring Uzbekistan: A Journey Through Time and Culture
Our expedition in Uzbekistan commenced in Shahrisabz, the storied birthplace of Emir Timur, a 14th-century warlord and revered national figure, commonly referred to as Tamerlane. Timur, known for establishing the Timurid Empire, undertook campaigns across a vast swath of territories that today encompass 25 nations. At the site of Timur’s Ak-Saray Palace, we were struck by the remnants of its grand entrance, with a striking 125-foot-high portal that once dwarfed structures of similar kind. Nearby, a monumental bronze statue commemorates Timur, who met his end from pneumonia in 1405 while en route to invade China. Standing under the intense Shahrisabz sun, gazing at the horizon’s first rays illuminating the undulating plains, it was easy to fathom how such an ambitious leader might envision the world as his domain.
The exterior of Almaty’s Ascension Cathedral
Angelo Zinna
Notably, Timur’s conquests ushered in a renaissance following a lengthy period of Mongol dominance. Two days later, we arrived in Samarkand, the vibrant heart of this cultural revival. With a history extending over 2,500 years and a current population of approximately 600,000, Samarkand stands as one of the most iconic metropolises along the Silk Road. Registan Square, its crown jewel, left a profound impression on me, as it unfolded before us. Three magnificent madrasas, dating back to the 15th and 17th centuries, adorned the expansive plaza, evoking a sense of wonder akin to that found in tales from One Thousand and One Nights. “Registan is our heart, our blood, and our soul,” our enthusiastic local guide, Armida Nazaryan, shared passionately.
While the tour experience was not too off the beaten path, the structured approach taken by Golden Eagle was evident. Upon arriving at various destinations, we were greeted by buses that whisked us away to the next site, guided by a flag-bearing local expert who communicated through earpieces. While this method sparked intrigue for some, it might not appeal to purists seeking a more rugged exploration. However, it proved effective for maximizing our understanding of a region where overland travel can pose significant difficulties. Each day was immersive, filled with a whirlwind of information, and by the time evening rolled in, my fellow travelers often found solace in the bar car, while I welcomed the comfort of my bed.
One of the two opulent restaurant cars on board
Golden Eagle Luxury Trains
Delightful dishes like seared scallops and salmon roe were served onboard the Golden Eagle, providing a memorable culinary experience.
Golden Eagle Luxury Trains
Upon reaching Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, I began to piece together a broader understanding of the region’s history, characterized largely by a cycle of conquest and fragmentation. This narrative of powerful leaders rising, only to be followed by contesting successors who carve territories, leads to both the disintegration of empires and the eventual emergence of new rulers. One memorable stop was the vibrant Kosmonavtlar station on the Tashkent Metro, where bustling crowds surged with every arriving train, their faces echoing the legacies of ancestors who once traversed these very deserts and steppes. Soon, it was back to the bus, and then back to the train, ready for the next chapter of this rich journey.
Source
www.cntraveler.com