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Nukus

Nukus, the capital of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, is a city rich in history and culture, located in the north of Uzbekistan near the Aral Sea. Surrounded by the vast Kara Kum, Kyzyl Kum, and Ustyurt deserts, Nukus boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

The city of Nukus has a relatively young history compared to other cities in Uzbekistan, celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2012. However, the land on which Nukus stands has a much older cultural heritage, with archaeological evidence dating back to the 4th century BC to the 4th century AD.

Centuries ago, the ancient city of Shurcha occupied the site of present-day Nukus. Located in the northwestern part of Nukus, Shurcha was once a defensive fortress protecting the borders of the ancient state of Khorezm and controlling the waterway on the Amu Darya river. Remnants of walls and towers from this ancient town can still be found in the area, according to local lore.

In the late 19th century, when Russia took control of the Khiva Khanate, Petro-Aleksandrovsk (Turtkul) became the center of the Amu Darya division. Nukus, then a small village, was chosen as the site for a large military fort, completed in 1874. The population of the fort, mostly Kazakhs, began to establish hospitals, schools, and administrative buildings around the fortress.

With the advent of Soviet rule, Turtkul became the administrative center of the Karakalpakstan autonomous region. However, the threat of the Amu Darya river flooding Turtkul, located 12 kilometers from the riverbank, led to the decision to move the administrative center to Nukus in the 1920s. Officially founded in 1932, Nukus has since become the economic, administrative, political, and cultural hub of Karakalpakstan.

Today, Nukus is a modern city adorned with contemporary buildings, boulevards, public gardens, and parks. One of its main attractions is the Karakalpakstan State Art Museum named after Igor Savitsky. Savitsky’s collection, housed in the museum, is renowned worldwide and has amazed artists and heads of state alike. Additionally, Nukus and its surroundings are home to many unique archaeological, historical, and cultural monuments waiting to be explored.

One such site is the Mizdahkan necropolis, located in the outskirts of Nukus in Khodjeyli town, known as “the land of the Pilgrims.” The necropolis is believed by Muslims to be the tomb of Adam, though scientists suggest it may be the burial place of Gayomarda (Gayamaretana), the first man according to Zoroastrian mythology.

Nukus serves as the perfect starting point for exploring Karakalpakstan, offering access to the Aral Sea and the town of Muynak. With its rich history, cultural heritage, and modern amenities, Nukus is a destination worth visiting for travelers interested in discovering the hidden gems of Uzbekistan.

Despite being a relatively young city, Nukus boasts several attractions that draw visitors from around the world and offers a glimpse into ancient civilizations and traditions that have shaped the region for centuries.

Igor Savitsky Art Museum

The Igor Savitsky Art Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Founded in 1966 by the artist Igor Savitsky, the museum houses a vast collection of art that spans various genres and styles. Savitsky personally curated the collection, which includes works by renowned artists such as Pavel Surovikin, Usto Mumin, Alexander Volkov, and Pavel Benkov.

One of the museum’s highlights is its collection of Russian avant-garde art from the 1920s and 1930s, which is the second-largest in the world. In addition to the avant-garde pieces, the museum also features works from other artistic movements and a rich collection of antiquities, including jewelry, clothing, and household items dating back centuries.

Mizdahkan Necropolis

Located on the outskirts of Nukus, the Mizdahkan Necropolis is one of the oldest in Central Asia and is steeped in history and legend. According to local folklore, the necropolis is the final resting place of Adam, the first man according to Islamic tradition, or possibly Gayomarda, the first man in Zoroastrian mythology.

The necropolis features several famous mausoleums, including the Mausoleum of Nazlymkhan Sulu from the 12th to 14th centuries, the Mausoleum of Shamun-Nabi, and the Kurgan of Jumart-Kassap. These sites are steeped in history and legend, making them popular destinations for pilgrims and travelers alike.

Gyaur-Kala Fortress

The Gyaur-Kala Fortress is an ancient citadel with walls that reach up to 10 meters in height. Archaeologists believe that the fortress was built in the 4th century BC and was later named by the Arabs in the 8th century due to its association with Zoroastrianism. The name “Gyaur-Kala” translates to “infidel fortress” in reference to the Zoroastrians who once lived there.

The fortress contains ruins that are believed to be the remains of a palace and a large religious structure. Archaeologists have discovered evidence of fire altars, suggesting that the fortress was once a center of Zoroastrian worship. Additionally, artifacts found within the palace ruins indicate that it was once inhabited by wealthy individuals.

In conclusion, Nukus is a city that offers a fascinating blend of ancient history, art, and culture. Whether exploring the masterpieces of the Savitsky Museum, visiting the ancient tombs of Mizdahkan, or marveling at the ruins of Gyaur-Kala Fortress, visitors to Nukus are sure to be captivated by the city’s rich heritage.