Attractions of Fergana are divided into two groups: ancient ones created in a colonial style, and modern ones in an eastern style. This is explained by the history of the “general’s city,” as Fergana is often called. It was founded in 1876 by Tsarist General Mikhail Dmitrievich Skobelev to become the gubernatorial center of the Russian Empire in this region. Therefore, unlike the ancient cities of Uzbekistan, the streets here are straight, the layout is precise, and historical landmarks are built in classical European style.
The old fortress in the center of Fergana, unfortunately, has not survived. The main attraction from ancient times is the former governor’s residence, built in the late 19th century. This building with harmonious proportions in the neoclassical style, adorned with graceful arched windows, pays homage to eastern charm.
The city has many other pre-revolutionary buildings, such as the men’s gymnasium, the officers’ assembly, the Byzantine-style chapel of Alexander Nevsky, and many more.
In modern times, Fergana has been adorned with monuments and art objects in the national spirit. Entering the city from the Tashkent and Kokand highways, a medieval-style arch greets travelers. In the evening, the Fergana arch looks magical with its illuminated design.
The city’s hallmark is the monument to the medieval astronomer and mathematician Al-Fergani, who lived twelve centuries ago. He is surrounded by a semicircular colonnade, a characteristic feature of many sculptures in Central Asia. A similar style is used for the “Mourning Mother” monument dedicated to those who perished during the Great Patriotic War. The bronze woman in traditional attire stands in an open pavilion with columns, under a canopy, against the backdrop of a high arched window with an intricate lattice.
While strolling through the streets of Fergana, you’ll encounter other interesting sculptures to capture memories of the city. For example, the monument to poet Alisher Navoi, an art composition of giant jugs surrounded by a flowerbed, or the Mistress of the Copper Mountain with Danila the Craftsman – although the Ural is far from the Fergana Valley, these heroes from Bazhov’s tales have harmoniously blended into the landscape of Central Fergana Park.
Visiting the Friday Mosque, the main mosque in Fergana, is also worthwhile. Its snow-white facade is adorned with traditional Central Asian blue decor. This mosque looks as elegant and festive as if it came from a picture in a book of Eastern tales.
Locals have great affection for the Ferghana Valley, often described with terms like “jewel” and “garden.” The majority of it is located within the territory of Uzbekistan, situated to the east and nestled between the Tian Shan mountains and the junction of the Pamir and Alay ranges. It is home to the largest population. When traveling through the valley, one passes numerous villages, settlements, small towns, and gardens. The most famous cities include Kokand, Margilan, and Andijan.
To the west of the city, approximately 50 km away, lies Rishtan, known for its ceramic souvenir production. The local pottery is reasonably priced, and the assortment is quite extensive.
The Karkidon Reservoir is also noteworthy, located 30 km from Rishtan and 22 km from the city of Kuva. The water is collected from mountain rivers, exceptionally cold, and the swimming season opens only in July. Besides picturesque forests, rare birds such as the turtledove, white stork, and Afghan starling can be spotted here.
Excursions to the surroundings will complement your impressions. Not far from Fergana are the ancient cities of the Kokand Khanate, which will captivate history enthusiasts: Margilan, Kuva, Rishtan, and Kokand itself with the luxurious Khudoyar Khan Palace. If you are curious about the making of real silk, take a tour to the Yodgorlik factory in Margilan.
Around the city stretches the blooming Fergana Valley, a huge attraction in itself. Here, the Naryn and Karadarya rivers merge, forming the longest river in Central Asia – the Syr Darya. This picturesque oasis, almost entirely surrounded by mountains, is called the paradise amid the desert and the pearl of the East.
