Tashkent

Tashkent (whose name means “Stone City”), the capital and largest city of Uzbekistan, is a fascinating mosaic of contrasts. Having been rebuilt almost from scratch after the devastating 1966 earthquake, the city today is characterized by wide, tree-lined avenues, vast parks, and imposing Soviet monumental/brutalist architecture. However, behind the concrete facades lies the heart of an ancient Silk Road oasis. With its intricate Islamic monuments, colorful, chaotic bazaars smelling of spices and roasted meat, and incredibly warm people, Tashkent is not merely a transit stop, but a vibrant, cosmopolitan Central Asian metropolis. Wander through the underground palace-like stations of its metro and surrender to the magic of a city that successfully bridges three completely different eras.