Nestled in the northern embrace of Samarkand, the Afrasiab Museum stands as a sentinel to the city’s storied past, weaving tales of conquests, civilizations, and the ebb and flow of time. As a testament to Samarkand’s resilience, this museum, situated near the bustling central bazaar, is a trove of historical treasures, bringing to life the grandeur of Afrasiab—an ancient settlement that witnessed the rise and fall of empires.
Once at the heart of ancient Samarkand, Afrasiab bore witness to the sweeping tide of history before succumbing to the tumultuous Mongol onslaught in the early 13th century. The museum, like a time capsule, chronicles Samarkand’s evolution from the days of Alexander the Great’s conquests to the eras that followed.
The soul of Afrasiab Museum lies in its archaeological treasures, unearthed from the hallowed grounds of the ancient settlement. Ossuaries, fragments of weapons, coins that exchanged hands centuries ago, and pottery fragments tell the captivating tale of Afrasiab’s various epochs. Notable among these artifacts are the remnants of the Samarkand palace from the Ikhshidid dynasty (7-8th centuries), offering a glimpse into the regal splendor of bygone eras.
Since the late 19th century, archaeological excavations have been an ongoing odyssey, unearthing Afrasiab’s secrets layer by layer. The museum pulsates with life as it unveils unique pieces of wall paintings, a visual feast dating back to the 7-8th centuries. These frescoes, adorned with scenes of hunting and joyous celebrations, bridge the chasm between the past and the present, allowing visitors to traverse the corridors of time.
Designed by the visionary Armenian architect Bagdasar Arzumanyan in 1970, the museum itself is a testament to architectural finesse. More than four decades old, the building echoes the spirit of the past, providing a fitting backdrop for the treasures it houses. Its architectural elegance creates a harmonious blend with the ancient allure of the artifacts within.
As you meander through the halls of Afrasiab Museum, each exhibit whispers secrets of a bygone era. The artifacts resonate with the footfalls of ancient civilizations, inviting visitors to witness the grand tapestry of Samarkand’s history. The museum, like a guardian of time, offers a chance to relive the triumphs and tribulations that shaped this timeless city.
Afrasiab Museum invites you to explore the relics of dynasties, the fragments of daily life, and the echoes of forgotten voices. From the clang of ancient swords to the delicate strokes of frescoes, each piece is a brushstroke in the vibrant portrait of Samarkand’s legacy.
As the sun sets over the hills of Afrasiab, the museum stands as a portal to a world long past, beckoning travelers to unravel the enigma of Samarkand’s ancient soul. Afrasiab Museum is not merely a repository; it is an immersive journey, an odyssey through time that leaves an indelible mark on those who seek to understand the beating heart of Samarkand.
Address: Samarkand, Tashkentskaya str.
Phone:(+998 66) 235-53-36
Working hours: from 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Closed: on Sunday
