famous person in uzbekistan essay

• Top 10 Notable Uzbek People: Well-Known Individuals

Uzbekistan, a landlocked country in Central Asia, has a rich history and culture that has produced many notable figures. Here are some of the most popular celebrities and notable people from Uzbek ethnicity:

• Ozodbek Nazarbekov: A prominent actor and comedian, known for his roles in popular Uzbek films and TV shows.
• Yulduz Usmanova: A renowned singer and actress, known for her powerful voice and energetic performances.
• Ravshan Irmatov: A highly respected football referee, known for his fair and decisive officiating at major international tournaments.
• Ruslan Chagaev: A former heavyweight boxing champion, known for his powerful punches and impressive knockout record.
• Sarvar Azimov: A professional boxer who competed in the 2020 Summer Olympics, known for his exceptional speed and agility.
• Dilnoza Kucherbayeva: A talented actress and model, known for her beauty and grace.
• Lola Yuldasheva: A popular singer and actress, known for her catchy songs and charming personality.
• Sevara Nazarkhan: A critically acclaimed singer and musician, known for her unique blend of traditional Uzbek music with modern influences.
• Davron Zabirov: A comedian and actor known for his witty humor and hilarious performances.
• Oybek Juraev: A successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, known for his contributions to the Uzbek economy and his charitable work.

Most Famous Uzbek People

Uzbek Mystique: Unraveling Three Key Historical Legacies

The Uzbek community is one of the most unique and vibrant communities in the world. With a rich history that dates back centuries, the Uzbek heritage has left a lasting impact on the world. From their renowned cuisine to their beautiful craftsmanship, Uzbeks have embraced their cultural traditions and continue to preserve them for future generations to appreciate. Here are three of the most well-known historical inheritances associated with the Uzbek heritage:

1. Silk Road: The Silk Road played a significant role in shaping Uzbekistan’s history. As a major trade route connecting East and West, it facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between China, India, Persia, and Europe. Uzbeks were masters of trade, and this legacy can still be observed in the bustling bazaars and marketplaces today. The Silk Road also influenced the architecture of Uzbekistan, with cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva boasting stunning Islamic structures that blend various artistic styles.

• The Silk Road facilitated trade between various civilizations.
• Uzbeks were skilled traders and merchants.
• Influenced the architecture in cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.

2. Uzbek Cuisine: Uzbek cuisine is renowned for its flavorsome dishes and unique cooking techniques. One of the most iconic dishes is plov, a flavorful rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices. The art of making plov, a communal meal traditionally cooked in a large cauldron, holds great cultural significance and is often associated with celebrations and weddings. Other notable dishes include manti (steamed dumplings), shashlik (grilled skewered meat), and somsa (stuffed pastries). The culinary traditions of Uzbekistan reflect the community’s agricultural background and the diversity of ingredients available.

• Plov is a popular traditional dish in Uzbek cuisine.
• Manti, shashlik, and somsa are other notable dishes.
• The culinary traditions reflect Uzbekistan’s agricultural background.

3. Art and Craftsmanship: Uzbekistan has a long-standing tradition of exquisite craftsmanship, particularly in textile production and ceramics. The art of silk weaving has been a prominent industry for centuries, with intricate patterns and vibrant colors adorning traditional Uzbek garments such as ikat fabrics. Ceramics, another significant art form, showcase delicate designs and vivid glazes. Uzbek artisans take pride in their meticulous workmanship and continue to pass down these skills through generations, ensuring the preservation of their artistic heritage.

• Textile production is renowned for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors.
• Ceramics showcase delicate designs and vivid glazes.
• Uzbek artisans take pride in their meticulous workmanship.

The Uzbek community’s historical inheritances have shaped not only their own culture but have also made an indelible mark on the world. From the bustling marketplaces of the Silk Road to the flavorsome dishes of Uzbek cuisine, and the intricate craftsmanship of their art, these cultural traditions are a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Uzbek people. As they continue to celebrate and preserve these inheritances, the Uzbek community serves as a source of inspiration for people around the globe.

Factsheet About Uzbek People

The Ancient Heritage of Uzbek Ethnic Groups

References to the Uzbek Ethnic Group

When researching the Uzbek ethnic group, there are various references and resources available to delve deeper into their history, culture, language, and other aspects of their identity. These resources can provide valuable insights into the Uzbek people and their contributions to society. Some notable references and resources include:

• “Uzbekistan: The Golden Road to Samarkand” by Calum MacLeod and Bradley Mayhew: This book offers a comprehensive overview of Uzbekistan, including its history, culture, and architecture. It provides valuable insights into the Uzbek people and their traditions.
• “The Silk Road: A New History with Documents” by Valerie Hansen: This book explores the history of trade along the Silk Road, including the role of the Uzbek people in this ancient network. It offers a broader context for understanding the Uzbek ethnic group.
• “Uzbekistan: The Birth of a Nation” by Shahram Akbarzadeh: This book focuses on the formation of Uzbekistan as a nation, examining the historical, political, and cultural factors that shaped the identity of the Uzbek people.
• “Uzbekistan: Culture Smart! The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture” by Alex Ulko: This guidebook provides insights into the customs, traditions, and social etiquette of Uzbekistan, offering a deeper understanding of the Uzbek people and their way of life.
• Academic Journals and Articles: Numerous academic journals and articles offer scholarly research on various aspects of the Uzbek ethnic group. These include studies on language, literature, history, and cultural practices. Examples of such journals are Central Asian Survey and Central Asian Affairs.

By utilizing these references and resources, individuals can gain a comprehensive understanding of the Uzbek ethnic group. Whether interested in their history, culture, or contributions to society, these materials offer valuable insights and perspectives.

In a striking celebration of diversity, numerous prominent individuals proudly reflect a mosaic of Hazara , Tajik and Pashtun roots, highlighting the intricate interplay of cultures within their heritage. From accomplished leaders to acclaimed artists, these figures embody the rich lexical semantic tapestry of ethnic backgrounds, illustrating the vibrant spectrum of human experiences.

Syarif Muhamad

You might also like.

Top 10 Notable Shona People: Well-Known Individuals

Ndebele leaders and icons: the top 10 notable personalities, mbunda leaders and icons: the top 10 notable personalities, top 10 celebrities embracing bisa roots, influential lenje individuals: the top 10 names to know, top 10 celebrities with ushi heritage, leave reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

A&W Stand on Israel-Palestine

Texas chicken stand on israel-palestine.

Do Lindt Chocolates Support Israel? Unraveling the Answer

Does CAVA Restaurant Support Israel? Understanding the Intricate Ties

Munchy’s view on israeli-palestinian situation, does usher support israel a deep dive, wawa perspective on israel-palestine, marigold position on the israeli-palestine conflict.

World countries facts

• World countries
• Central Asia
• Famous people

Republic of Uzbekistan Central Asia Tashkent 28,929,716 inhabitants 447,400 sq km 64.66 inhabitants/sq km Uzbekistani soum (UZS) population evolution

Famous people from Uzbekistan

Here is a list of famous people from Uzbekistan . Curious if anybody from Uzbekistan made it our most famous people in the world list? Read the aformentioned article in order to find out.

Alina Kabaeva

Olympic athlete

Alina Maratovna Kabaeva is a Russian Honored Master of Sports, retired rhythmic gymnast, and politician. Since 2007, she has been a State Duma deputy from the United Russia party. Kabaeva is Russia's second most successful rhythmic gymnast after Evgenia Kanaeva. She is also one of the most decorated gymnasts in the history of rhythmic gymnastics with two Olympic medals, 14 world championship medals and 25 European championship medals.

Zahir-ud-din Muhammad Babur was a conqueror from Central Asia who, following a series of setbacks, finally succeeded in laying the basis for the Mughal dynasty in the Indian Subcontinent and became the first Mughal emperor. He was a direct descendant of Timur, from the Barlas clan, through his father, and a descendant also of Genghis Khan through his mother. Culturally, he was greatly influenced by the Persian culture and this affected both his own actions and those of his successors, giving rise to a significant expansion of the Persianate ethos in the Indian subcontinent.

Anna German

Anna Wiktoria German was a Polish singer immensely popular in Poland and in the Soviet Union in 1960s-1970s. She released over a dozen music albums with songs in Polish, as well as several albums with Russian repertoire.

Islam Karimov

Islom Abdug‘aniyevich Karimov is the first President of Uzbekistan, ruling since 1989. Karimov was placed in an orphanage in Samarkand at birth, grew up to study economics and engineering at school. He became an official in the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, becoming the party's First Secretary in Uzbekistan in 1989. On March 24, 1990 he became President of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic. Karimov's election to the Uzbek Communist Party resulted after his predecessor Rafik Nishanov failed to quell inter-ethnic clashes and instability in the Fergana region. He declared Uzbekistan an independent nation on August 31, 1991 and subsequently won Uzbekistan's first presidential election on December 29, 1991, with 86% of the vote. The election was called unfair, with state-run propaganda and a falsified vote count, although the opposing candidate and leader of the Erk Party, Muhammad Salih, had a chance to participate. Karimov permitted the participation of the opposition organizations Birlik and the Islamic Renaissance Party until his efforts to consolidate power over Shukrullo Mirsaidov, a former Communist Party elite who had originally supported Karimov's rise to the Party presidency. The period of political thaw was brief; Karimov began to complicate the registration process of opposition parties during elections. As Birlik grew in strength as a "popular movement", it was denied the ability to register as a "political party" without the required 60,000 signatures. The Karimov government allowed Birlik one day to gather these signatures, 25,000 of which they rejected. Karimov effectively took authoritarian measures to block any meaningful opposition.

Peter Odemwingie

Peter Osaze Odemwingie is a footballer who plays for Premier League club Cardiff City as a striker. Brought up in Russia, Odemwingie was eligible to play for the Kazakhstan, Russia and Uzbekistan national teams but chose to play for Nigeria.

Muhammad al-Bukhari

Abū ‘Abd Allāh Muḥammad ibn Ismā‘īl ibn Ibrāhīm ibn al-Mughīrah ibn Bardizbah al-Ju‘fī al-Bukhārī, or Bukhārī, commonly referred to as Imam al-Bukhari or Imam Bukhari, was a Persian Islamic scholar who authored the hadith collection known as Sahih al-Bukhari, regarded by Sunni Muslims as one of the most sahih of all hadith compilations. He also wrote the books Al-Adab al-Mufrad.

Alisher Usmanov

Alisher Burkhanovich Usmanov is an Uzbek-born Russian business magnate. According to the 2011 edition of Forbes magazine, the oligarch Usmanov is Russia's richest man, with a fortune estimated at $18.1 billion, and the world's 28th richest person. According to the December 2012 Bloomberg Billionaires Index, he has an estimated net worth of $17.3 billion, making him the 39th richest person in the world. In April 2013, the Sunday Times listed him as the richest person in the UK, ousting Lakshmi Mittal for the number one spot, coming in with a net worth of $17.7 billion according to RussianCapitalists.com. He built his wealth through mining and lumber operations, and investments, and is the majority shareholder of Metalloinvest, a Russian industrial conglomerate, which he founded to manage Gazprom's metals interests. Usmanov is also a co‑owner of the media holding company which comprises 7TV and Muz‑TV federal television channels and 33 regional TV broadcasting stations. He owns the Kommersant and Sekret Firmy Publishing Houses, shares in the company SUP, which controls Internet website Livejournal.com and Internet newspaper Gazeta.ru. He is a co‑owner of Russia's second-largest mobile telephone operator, MegaFon, and co-owner of Mail.ru, the largest Internet company in the Russian-speaking world, which owns stakes in popular web portals like Odnoklassniki, Vkontakte, Facebook and others.

Varvara Lepchenko

Tennis Player

Varvara Petrovna Lepchenko is an Uzbek-American professional tennis player. As of June 24, 2013, she is ranked No. 29 in the world, and No. 3 in the United States. Lepchenko has won eleven ITF singles titles during her career.

Gulnara Karimova

Gulnora Islomovna Karimova is an Uzbekistan diplomat, professor and businessperson. She is the founder and chairperson of The Forum of Culture and Arts of Uzbekistan Foundations Board of Trustees and a number of NGOs focused on cultural and social aspects of life in Uzbekistan. She is the eldest daughter of the dictator of Uzbekistan, Islam Karimov.

Marsel İlhan

Marsel İlhan is a Turkish tennis player, ranked No. 1 in Turkey and with a career-high singles ranking of World No. 87 in January 2011. He is the first ever Turkish player to reach the 2nd round in a Grand Slam tournament, as well as the first Turkish player to win a Challenger Tournament and also the first Turkish player to enter the top 100 in the world ranking.

Yulduz Usmanova

Yulduz Usmonova is a well-known Uzbek singer and actress. She has achieved widespread fame in Uzbekistan, other parts of Central Asia, and more recently in Turkey. Usmonova has also acted in a number of Uzbek films.

Ravshan Irmatov

Ravshan Sayfiddinovich Irmatov is an Uzbek football referee.

Odil Ahmedov

Soccer Midfielder

Odil Ahmedov is an Uzbek international footballer, who plays for Anzhi Makhachkala. He usually plays as a central midfielder, but also played as a centre back during the 2011 Asian Cup, because of some injured defenders.

Maksim Shatskikh

Maksim Aleksandrovich Shatskikh, is an Uzbek professional footballer of Russian origin who plays for Arsenal Kyiv in the Ukrainian Premier League. He is widely regarded as one of the best Uzbekistani players of all time and is currently the leading goalscorer of the national team. Shatskikh is one of the best all-time scorers of the Ukrainian Premier League and the best scorer among foreign players. On 28 July 1999, Shatskikh became the second Asian player after South Korean Park Ji-Sung to score in the UEFA Champions League and is only the second Uzbek player after Mirjalol Kasymov to score in UEFA football competitions.

Ruslan Chagaev

Professional Boxer

Ruslan Chagaev born 19 October 1978 in Andijan, Uzbek SSR, Soviet Union is a former WBA heavyweight boxing champion. As an amateur boxer, he has won the Asian and World Championships in the heavyweight category. Chagaev won the WBA title in 2007 with a majority decision victory over Nikolai Valuev, becoming the first and so far the only Asian in history to hold a major heavyweight title. He was made "champion in recess" after he sustained an injury and relinquished the title after failing to have a rematch with Valuev. In his next fight, Chagaev lost by stoppage to IBF, WBO and IBO Champion Wladimir Klitschko.

Irina Viner

Irina Aleksandrovna Viner-Usmanova is a Russian rhythmic gymnastics coach who is head trainer of the Russian national team. Her husband is an Uzbek-born Russian business magnate Alisher Usmanov. She is Jewish.

Businessperson

Lev Avnerovich Leviev is a Soviet-born Israeli businessman, philanthropist and investor. With a net worth of roughly $1.5 billion in March 2013, he has been a major philanthropist for Hasidic Jewish causes in Eastern Europe and Israel. Beginning in the 1990s, Leviev avoided being directly involved with the Yeltsin family, and nurtured ties with Vladimir Putin. His diamond mining investments in Angola and his investments in Israeli settlements have been the target of protests.

Sevara Nazarkhan

Sevara Nazarkhan is an Uzbek singer, songwriter, and musician. Her musical style incorporates Uzbek folk and contemporary music. Nazarkhan has achieved worldwide fame and has collaborated with high-profile international artists. In 2004, Nazarkhan received the BBC Radio 3 World Music Award in the category "Best Asian Artist".

Akgul Amanmuradova

Akgul Charievna Amanmuradova is a professional female tennis player from Uzbekistan. In 2005, she reached her first-ever WTA singles final at the Tashkent Open, held in the capital of her home country, where she was the runner-up to 16-year-old Michaëlla Krajicek of the Netherlands. She repeated this performance in 2009, where she lost the finals to Shahar Pe'er of Israel. In 2011, she reached her biggest ITF singles final at the President's Cup held in Astana, Kazakhstan. where she was beaten by Vitalia Diatchenko of Russia.

Djamolidine Abdoujaparov

Professional Cyclist

Djamolidine Abdoujaparov is a former professional road racing cyclist from Uzbekistan. Abdoujaparov was a sprinter, nicknamed "The Tashkent Terror" as he was so ferocious in the sprints. His unorthodox and often erratic sprinting caused a number of crashes. He is one of five riders to have won the points competition in all three Grand Tours. Abdoujaparov was born in Tashkent. A graduate of the Soviet sports programme, he came into his prime just as his country gained independence; after initial difficulties he signed for a Western professional team and became one of the world's top sprinters. Abdoujaparov had numerous tussles with Laurent Jalabert in the Tour de France's green sprinters jersey competition in the early 1990s. In 1991 Abdoujaparov won the competition despite a spectacular crash during the final stage on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, where he collided with the barriers 100m before the finish and somersaulted into the air. Despite still holding enough points to win the sprinters' jersey, he had to cross the line unaided. Members of his team picked him up, put him back on the bike, and he rode slowly over the last few meters, medical staff walking alongside him.

Oksana Chusovitina

Oksana Aleksandrovna Chusovitina is an Olympic medalist and World Champion gymnast who has competed for Germany since 2006. She was formerly a citizen of, and a competitor for, the Soviet Union and Uzbekistan. To date, Chusovitina's career in elite gymnastics has spanned more than 20 years. She won the USSR Junior Nationals in 1988 and began competing at the international level in 1989, before many of her current rivals were even born. She is the only female gymnast ever to compete in six Olympic Games, and is one of only two female gymnasts to compete at the Olympics under three different national teams: the Unified Team in 1992; Uzbekistan in 1996, 2000 and 2004; and Germany in 2008 and 2012. Chusovitina has also competed in 10 World Championships, three Asian Games and three Goodwill Games. In addition, Chusovitina holds the record for the most individual world championships medals on a single event. Chusovitina is also one of only a handful of women, along with Cuban Leyanet Gonzalez, Soviet legend Larisa Latynina, and Dutch Olympian Suzanne Harmes, to return to high-level gymnastics and international competition after becoming a mother. Australia's head women's coach, Peggy Liddick, said Chusovitina is a role model and an inspiration.

Muhammad ibn `Isa at-Tirmidhi

Abū ‘Īsá Muḥammad ibn ‛Īsá as-Sulamī aḍ-Ḍarīr al-Būghī at-Tirmidhī, often referred to as Imam at-Tirmidhi, was a Persian Islamic scholar and collector of hadith who wrote al-Jami` as-Sahih, one of the six canonical hadith compilations in Sunni Islam. He also wrote Shama'il Muhammadiyah, a compilation of hadiths concerning the person and character of the Islamic prophet, Muhammad. At-Tirmidhi was also well versed in Arabic grammar, favoring the school of Kufa over Basra due to the former's preservation of Arabic poetry as a primary source.

Nur ad-Dīn Abd ar-Rahmān Jāmī also known as DJāmī, Mawlanā Nūr al-Dīn 'Abd al-Rahmān or Abd-Al-Rahmān Nur-Al-Din Muhammad Dashti who is commonly known as Jami, is known for his achievements as a scholar, mystic, writer, composer of numerous lyrics and idylls, historian, and the greatest Persian and Tajik Sufi poets of the 15th century. Jami was primarily an outstanding poet-theologian of the school of Ibn Arabi and a prominent Khwājagānī Sũfī. He was recognized for his eloquent tongue and ready at repartee who analyzed the idea of the metaphysics of mercy. Among his famous poetical works are: Haft Awrang, Tuhfat al-Ahrar, Layla wa -Majnun, Fatihat al-Shabab, Lawa'ih, Al-Durrah al-Fakhirah.

Server Djeparov

Server Djeparov is an Uzbekistani professional football midfielder who currently plays for Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma. He has won the Asian Footballer of the Year awards twice, first in 2008 and the other in 2011.

Zilola Bahodirovna Musaeva, most commonly known by her stage name Shahzoda, is an Uzbek singer and actress. Zilola Musaeva was born on July 28, 1979, in Tashkent. Shahzoda has become an immensely popular singer in Uzbekistan and other neighboring countries. Recently Shahzoda has gained some fame in Russia. She sings in Uzbek, Russian, Persian, Kazakh, Tajik, Romanian, and English.

Yefim Bronfman

Yefim "Fima" Naumovich Bronfman is a Soviet-born Israeli-American pianist.

Iroda Tulyaganova

Iroda Tulyaganova is a professional tennis player who comes from Uzbekistan.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev

Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev is a Uzbek politician who has been Prime Minister of Uzbekistan since 2003. Previously he served as governor of Jizzakh Province from 1996 to September 2001, then as governor of Samarqand Province from September 2001 until his appointment as Prime Minister in 2003. He was nominated as Prime Minister by President Islam Karimov on December 12, 2003 and approved by the Uzbek parliament. He replaced Prime Minister O‘tkir Sultonov. His deputy is Ergash Shoismatov.

Alexander Geynrikh

Alexander Geynrikh is a Russian-Uzbek professional footballer forward who plays for the Uzbekistan national team. He is of partial German descent.

Abu Mansur Maturidi

Philosopher

Muhammad Abu Mansur al-Maturidi was an Persian Muslim theologian, and a scholar of Islamic jurisprudence and Qur'anic exegesis. Al Maturidi is one of the pioneers of Islamic Jurisprudence scholars and his two works are considered to be authoritative on the subject. He had a "high standing" among the scholars of his time and region.

Dmitry Kharatyan

Dmitry Kharatyan PAR is a Russian actor of Armenian descent. He was born in Olmaliq, Uzbek SSR, Soviet Union. His debut was in Vladimir Menshov's The Prank in 1977.

Mirjalol Qosimov

Mirjalol Kushakovich Qosimov is head coach of the Uzbekistan national football team and FC Bunyodkor. He played for the national team as a midfielder.

Vladimir Dzhanibekov

Vladimir Aleksandrovich Dzhanibekov is a former cosmonaut who made five flights.

Michael Cherney

Michael Cherney is a Uzbekistan-born Israeli entrepreneur and industrialist. He is known for his significant role in the 1990s Aluminium in Russia, and his business ventures in Israel. He is also the founder of the Michael Cherney Foundation and main sponsor of The Intelligence Summit.

Dina Rubina

Dina Ilyinichna Rubina is a Russian-Israeli prose writer.

Alimzhan Tokhtakhunov

Alimzhan Tursunovich Tokhtakhounov is a Russian businessman, suspected criminal, and former sportsman. He is accused in relations with organized crime and bribing of figure skating judges in the 2002 Winter Olympics. His nickname is thought to be "Taiwanchik," which refers to his distinctly Asiatic as opposed to European facial features.

Artur Grigorian

Artur Grigorian is an Uzbek professional boxer of Armenian descent. Grigorian is a former WBO Lightweight Champion. He retained his lightweight belt for a record of 17 times and held his belt for seven years, six months and twenty days; nearly as long as record holder Benny Leonard held his lightweight title.

Rustam Kasimdzhanov

Chess Player

Rustam Kasimdzhanov is an Uzbekistani chess Grandmaster, best known for winning the FIDE World Chess Championship 2004. He was born in Tashkent, in the former Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic. He is an ethnic Uzbek.

Iskander Makhmudov

Iskander Makhmudov is an Uzbek businessman based in Russia. He was born to an ethnic Uzbek Muslim family. Mr. Makhmudov has been referred by Yekaterinburg News as "One of Russia’s most prominent and civically involved industrialists" who has contributed more than $1 billion to social, civic and philanthropic causes since 2001.

Vitaliy Denisov

Soccer Defender

Vitaliy Gennadievich Denisov is a Uzbekistani footballer with Belarusian origins, currently playing for Russian Premier League club FC Lokomotiv Moscow as a left-back. He is a member of the Uzbekistan national football team. He is the son of Gennadi Denisov.

Abusaeid Abolkheir

Abusa'id Abolkhayr or Abū-Sa'īd Abul-Khayr, also known as Sheikh Abusaeid or Abu Sa'eed, was a famous Persian Sufi and poet who contributed extensively to the evolution of Sufi tradition. The majority of what is known from his life comes from the book Asrar al-Tawhid written by Mohammad Ibn Monavvar, one of his grandsons, 130 years after his death. The book, which is an important early Sufi writing in Persian, presents a record of his life in the form of anecdotes from a variety of sources and contains a collection of his words. During his life his fame spread throughout the Islamic world, even to Spain. He was the first Sufi writer to widely use ordinary love poems as way to express and illuminate mysticism, and as such he played a major role in foundation of Persian Sufi poetry. He spent most of his life in Nishapur.

Ulugbek Bakayev

Soccer Forward

Ulugbek Bakayev is a Uzbekistan footballer currently playing for Kazakhstan Premier League side Irtysh Pavlodar as a striker.

Timur Kapadze

Timur Kapadze is an Uzbekistani professional football midfielder of Ahiska-Turkish descent who currently plays for the Kazakhstani side FC Aktobe.

Jacob Arabo

Jacob Arabo is a Bukharian-American jeweler and founder of Jacob & Company.

Farrukh Dustov

Farrukh Dustov is an Uzbek tennis player playing on the ITF Futures Tour and ATP Challenger Tour. On April 30, 2007, he reached his highest ATP singles ranking of 173. Formerly coached by Manuel Gasbarri, he is now coached by Petr Lebed.

Sergey Lagutin

Professional Road Racing Cyclist

Sergey Lagutin is an Uzbek professional road racing cyclist of Russian heritage, currently riding for UCI ProTeam Vacansoleil-DCM. In 2003, Lagutin became world champion—capturing the Under-23 men's road race. He represented Uzbekistan in the men's road race at the 2004 Summer Olympic Games. In 2005, he captured the Uzbekistan national road race and time trial championships. In June 2006, he rode for the Navigators Insurance team and has captured the Commerce Bank Triple series championship in the US, as well as regaining his national road race title. Lagutin will join RusVelo for the 2014 season, after his previous team – Vacansoleil-DCM – folded.

Genrich Altshuller

Genrikh Saulovich Altshuller, was a Soviet engineer, inventor, scientist, journalist and writer. He is most notable for the creation of the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving, better known by its Russia acronym TRIZ. He founded the Azerbaijan Public Institute for Inventive Creation, and was the first President of the TRIZ Association. He also wrote science fiction under the pen-name Genrikh Altov.

Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Kathīr al-Farghānī

Abū al-ʿAbbās Aḥmad ibn Muḥammad ibn Kathīr al-Farghānī. also known as Alfraganus in the West, was an Arab or Persian Sunni Muslim astronomer, and one of the most famous astronomers in 9th century. The crater Alfraganus on the Moon is named after him.

Rina Zelyonaya

Ekaterina Vasilyevna Zelyonaya, better known as Rina Zelyonaya, was a Soviet actress and singer of Ukrainian ancestry. She became popular on account of her ability to imitate the speech of children. Although she appeared briefly in such well-known films as Podkidysh, for which she also provided the script, Zelyonaya earned her living by touring the country and performing humorous skits from the life of children. She also provided the voice for cartoon characters and radio shows. At an advanced age, she became cast in the film roles of grannies, notably as Mrs. Hudson in the TV series The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson filmed by the Lenfilm movie studio between 1979 and 1986.

Rishod Sobirov

Olympic Judo Athlete

Rishod Sobirov is an Uzbek judoka. He won the bronze medal in the Men's 60 kg at the 2008 Summer Olympics and two World Judo Championships in 2010 and 2011, making him the current number one in the International Judo Federation ranking of Men's 60. Sobirov won a bronze medal in the men's under 60kg division at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.

Tatyana Kotova

Tatyana Vladimirovna Kotova is an athlete who competes for Russia in the long jump. Her personal best was a jump of 7.42 m at Annecy in 2002. In September, 2000 she was injured in a car accident. Kotova won bronze medals in the event at the 2000 and 2004 Summer Olympics. She won three consecutive silver medals at the World Championships in Athletics from 2001 to 2005, also taking bronze in 2007. She had greater success indoors, where she won the gold medal on three occasions as well as finishing as runner-up in 2001 and 2004. Her other titles include wins at the 2002 European Athletics Championships and the 2002 IAAF World Cup. She was third at the 2001 Goodwill Games and was the jackpot winner of the 2000 IAAF Golden League.

Amina Zaripova

Amina Zaripova is a retired rhythmic gymnast with Tatar roots. She competed for Russia. Her older sister, Venera Zaripova, is also a retired rhythmic gymnast. She is the 1994 World All-around silver medalist, 1993 World All-around bronze medalist and a two time European All-around bronze medalist.

Nigina Abduraimova

Nigina Abduraimova is an Uzbekistani professional tennis player. Abduraimova has won one singles and one doubles title on the ITF tour in her career. On 07 October 2013, she reached her best singles ranking of world number 206. On 7 November 2011, she peaked at world number 192 in the doubles rankings. Abduraimova made her debut for the Uzbekistan Fed Cup team in 2010, accumulating an overall record of 10-12.

Elena Kats-Chernin

Elena Kats-Chernin is a film score composer.

Habibullah Khan

Habibullah Khan was the Emir of Afghanistan from 1901 until 1919. He was born in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, the eldest son of the Emir Abdur Rahman Khan, whom he succeeded by right of primogeniture in October 1901. Habibullah was a relatively secular, reform-minded ruler who attempted to modernize his country. During his reign he worked to bring Western medicine and other technology to Afghanistan. In 1904, Habibullah founded the Habibia school as well as a military academy. He also worked to put in place progressive reforms in his country. He instituted various legal reforms and repealed many of the harshest criminal penalties. But one of his chief advisors Abdul Lateef was sentenced to death in 1903 for apostasy. He was stoned to death in Kabul. Other reforms included the dismantling of the repressive internal intelligence organization that had been put in place by his father. He strictly maintained the country's neutrality in World War I, despite strenuous efforts by the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire and a German military mission to enlist Afghanistan on its side. He also greatly reduced tensions with British India, signing a treaty of friendship in 1905 and paying an official state visit in 1907.

Bahodir Nasimov

Bakhodir Odimdjonovich Nasimov is an Uzbek footballer who plays for Azerbaijan Premier League club Neftchi Baku as a forward, having previously played for Dinamo Samarqand, Bunyodkor and Rubin Kazan.

Natasha Alam

Natasha Alam is a Uzbekistani actress and model.

Andrei Piatnitski

Andrei Vladimirović Piatnitski is a retired association football midfielder. Currently he is the manager of FC Vityaz Podolsk in the Russian First Division. He played for a few clubs, including Spartak Moscow and Sokol Saratov. In 1990, he played one match for the USSR. In 1992 he played for the CIS and then for the Uzbekistan national football team. Then he played for Russia national football team and was a participant at the 1994 FIFA World Cup.

Mathematician

Ala al-Dīn Ali ibn Muhammed, known as Ali Qushji, was a Turkic or Persian astronomer, mathematician and physicist originally from Samarkand, who settled in the Ottoman Empire some time before 1472. As a disciple of Ulugh Beg, he is best known for the development of astronomical physics independent from natural philosophy, and for providing empirical evidence for the Earth's rotation in his treatise, Concerning the Supposed Dependence of Astronomy upon Philosophy. In addition to his contributions to Ulugh Beg's famous work Zij-i-Sultani and to the founding of Sahn-ı Seman University, one of the first madrasahs in the Ottoman Empire, Ali Qushji was also the author of several scientific works and textbooks on astronomy.

Sergey Tetyukhin

Volleyball player

Sergey Yuryevich Tetyukhin is a Russian volleyball player. He was born in Fergana, Uzbekistan. He is 1.97 m tall, and plays as passer-attacker.

Yevgeny Pomazan

Yevgeny Valeryevich Pomazan is a footballer who currently plays for FC Anzhi Makhachkala. Pomazan previously played for FC Kuban Krasnodar. He was part of the Russian Under 17 squad that won the 2006 UEFA European Under-17 Football Championship. In 2007 he represented Europe at the UEFA-CAF Meridian Cup, which the European team won 10–1 on aggregate over two games. On the final day of the transfer window in the summer of 2007, Pomazan signed on loan with CSKA Moscow. He made his Russian Premier League debut for CSKA Moscow on 28 October 2007 in a 4–2 game against FC Krylia Sovetov Samara. In the June 2013 Pomazan joined newly promoted Ural Sverdlovsk Oblast on a season-long loan.

Sanzhar Tursunov

Sanzhar Atkhamovich Tursunov is a Russian and Uzbekistani professional football player. He currently plays for FC Gazovik Orenburg.

Sogdiana Fedorinskaya

Sogdiana, sometimes with the last name Fedorinskaya, born as Oksana Vladimirovna Nechitaylo is an Uzbek singer and actress, born February 17, 1984 in Tashkent. She is of Ukrainian descent. She sings in Russian, Ukrainian, Uzbek, French, Chechen and English. Some of the songs she wrote herself. Her name alludes to the old kingdom Sogdiana partly consistent with today’s Uzbekistan. She has described herself as shy, taciturn and introvert, but her trained voice is strong, safe and soulfull and refers to Whitney Houston. As their role models, she said Sofia Rotaru, Queen, Lara Fabian, Mariah Carey, Ofra Haza, and Whitney Houston.

Sabina Sharipova

Sabina Sharipova is a professional Uzbekistani tennis player. Sharipova has competed for the Uzbekistan Fed Cup team.

Muhammad Yaqub Bek was a Tajik adventurer who became head of the kingdom of Kashgaria.

Baha-ud-Din Naqshband Bukhari

Deceased Person

Baha-ud-Din Naqshband Bukhari was the founder of what would become one of the largest and most influential Sufi Muslim orders, the Naqshbandi.

Sharof Rashidov

Sharof Rashidovich Rashidov was a Communist Party leader in the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic and a CPSU Central Committee Politbureau candidate member between 1961 and 1983. Born the day before the Russian Revolution to a poor peasant family in Jizzakh, Uzbekistan, Sharof Rashidov worked as a teacher, journalist and editor for a Samarkand newspaper. He returned home in 1942 with wounds suffered on the German front in World War 2. He became head of the Uzbekistan Writers Union in 1949, and was elected to the post of Chairman of the Praesidium of the Uzbek Supreme Soviet in 1950. In 1959, he became First Secretary of the Uzbek Communist Party, a post he held to his death in 1983. In the Soviet Union his name became synonymous with corruption, nepotism and the Great Cotton Scandal of the late Brezhnev period. As orders from Moscow to grow increasing quantities of, the Uzbek government responded by reporting miraculous growth in land irrigated and harvested, and record improvements in production and efficiency. Today it would seem that most of these records were falsified. The Uzbek leadership used these exaggerated figures to transfer substantial amounts of wealth from central Soviet funds into Uzbekistan. When this was discovered by Andropov, Rashidov committed suicide.

Alik Sakharov

Cinematographer

Alik Sakharov, ASC is a Soviet-born American cinematographer and television director.

Ziyoda Qobilova

Pop rock Artist

Ziyoda O’tkirovna Qobilova, most commonly known by her stage name Ziyoda, is a popular Uzbek singer and actress. She sings in Uzbek, Hindi and Persian. She has also become famous outside of Uzbekistan thanks to a cover of Ruslana's song Wild Dances. Ziyoda has also acted in a number of Uzbek drama films.

Najmuddin Kubra

Najmuddīn-e Kubrā or Najm al-Din Kubra, was a 13th-century Persian Sufi from Khwarezmia, the founder of the Kubrawiyya or Kubraviyah Sufi order, influential in the Ilkhanid and Timurid. His method, exemplary of a "golden age" of Sufi metaphysics, was related to the Illuminationism of Shahab al-Din Suhrawardi as well as to Rumi's Shams Tabrizi. Kubra was born in 540/1145 and died in 617/1220.

Vasilis Hatzipanagis

Vasilis "Vasia" Hatzipanagis is a retired Greek footballer. He played for Iraklis FC in Greek Alpha Ethniki and Pakhtakor Tashkent in the Soviet Top League. He also played for Greece and USSR. He has played in the World's Best Eleven on one occasion. He is often regarded as the Greek equivalent of football legends such as Maradona.

Ibn al-Rawandi

Abu al-Hasan Ahmad ibn Yahya ibn Ishaq al-Rawandi, commonly known as Ibn al-Rawandi, was an early skeptic of Islam and a critic of religion in general. In his early days he was a Mutazilite scholar, but after rejecting the Mutazilite doctrine he adhered to Shia Islam for a brief period and later became a freethinker who repudiated Islam and reviled religion. Though none of his works survived, his opinions had been preserved through his critics, and the surviving books that answered him. The book with the most preserved fragments, is the Kitab al-Zumurrud.

Alexei Sultanov

Alexei Sultanov was a Russian-American classical pianist of Uzbek origin. At the age of 6, he began piano lessons in Tashkent with Tamara Popovich. He became famous after winning the Eighth Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in 1989, at the age of 19. He was the youngest contestant in that year's competition. Listeners were awed by his virtuosic technique, musicality, and dynamic range. After winning the Van Cliburn, he made appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and Late Night with David Letterman. In October 1995, Sultanov won second prize at the International Frederick Chopin Piano Competition; the grand prize was not awarded. Sultanov refused to accept the second prize, and suffered a severe stroke soon after. Even after a second stroke in 2001 paralyzed his left side, Sultanov continued to play the piano with his right hand with his wife, Dace Abele, accompanying him with the left hand. He died on June 30, 2005 at the age of 35 in Fort Worth.

Adilbek Niyazymbetov

Adilbek Sabituly Niyazymbetov is a Kazakh amateur boxer who won Silver at light heavyweight at the 2011 World Championships and the 2012 Olympics. He is a southpaw.

Alexander Shatilov

Professional Artistic Gymnast

Alexander 'Alex' Shatilov is an Israeli artistic gymnast. He specializes in the floor exercise, in which he won several medals at world and European championships, and reached the final at the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics. In 2013, Shatilov won a gold medal at the European championship in gymnastics in Moscow, Russia.

Lola Astanova

Classical Artist

Lola Astanova is a Russian-American pianist, noted for her interpretations of compositions by Chopin, Liszt and Rachmaninoff, as well as piano transcriptions.

Alexander Zhurbin

Film score Artist

Alexander Zhurbin is one of the most important Russian composers of his generation. His music is widely performed all over the former Soviet Union, East Europe and West Europe, Canada and the United States. He composes in a wide range of forms and styles: from symphonies to pop music, from chamber music to "new wave," from operas and ballets to movie scores and music for the theater. The list of his works is very long. Before 1990 the composer lived in the former Soviet Union, where he was one of the biggest stars in the Arts. His tunes were hummed practically by everyone, and his face was familiar to everybody, because he was a frequent participant in various TV-programs. Meanwhile his symphony and chamber music was performed in many major concert halls throughout the country. He was born in Tashkent, where he graduated Special Music School in 1963. Later he graduated Tashkent Conservatory as a cellist, and Gnessin Music College as a composer. His teachers there were professors Nikolai Peiko and Aram Khachaturian. After that, he did his postgraduate studies as a musicologist in Leningrad, where completed his Ph.D. dissertation on Gustav Mahler's Symphonies. His teachers there were Profs. Sergey Slonimsky, Yuzef Kon, and he also had frequent consultations with Dmitri Shostakovich.

Lola Karimova-Tillyaeva

Lola Karimova-Tillyaeva is an Uzbek diplomat and philanthropist. She is the younger daughter of Uzbekistan President Islam Karimov and his second wife, Tatyana Akbarovna Karimova. Her older sister is Uzbek diplomat and business mogul Gulnara Karimova.

Ahmad Ghazali

Aḥmad Ghazālī was a Persian mystic, writer, and eloquent preacher. He is best known in the history of Sufism for his ideas on love, expressed primarily in the celebrated work entitled Sawāneḥ.

Alexander Alexeev

Alexander Vyacheslavovich Alekseev is a professional Cruiserweight boxer from Russia.

Viktor Verzhbitsky

Viktor Verzhbitsky, born 21 September 1959, in Tashkent, Soviet Union. Viktor is well known for playing the role of Zavulon in the 2004 film Night Watch and it's 2006 sequel Day Watch. He has been relatively active as an actor on both the small screen and large screen since 1994 when he starred in Peshavar Waltz. He has become one of Russia's best known actors.

Radion Gataullin

Radion Gataullin is a retired pole vaulter who trained at Burevestnik in Tashkent and represented the USSR and later Russia. His personal best jump was 6.02 and 6.00 metres, and he became the second pole vaulter to break the 6 metre barrier after Sergey Bubka. He was the first vaulter to clear 6.00m indoors.

Hamza Hakimzade Niyazi

Hamza Hakimzade Niyazi was a Soviet and Uzbek author, composer, playwright, poet, and political activist. Niyazi, along with Gʻafur Gʻulom, is widely seen as one of the leading figures in the early development of the modern literary tradition of Uzbekistan. He received a National Writer of the Uzbek SSR award on February 27, 1926. Hamza Hakimzade Niyazi was stoned to death in the town of Shohimardon by Islamic fundamentalists for his anti-religious activities.

Ilyos Zeytulayev

Ilyos Zeytulayev is an Uzbek footballer who plays for Lanciano in Serie B. Zeytulayev has spent most of his career in Serie B and Lega Pro Prima Divisione. His first name is sometimes spelled Illyos, or Ilyas, the latter of which is the Russian equivalent. Moreover, Zeytulayev is also romanized as Zeytulaev.

Lefteris Pantazis

Lefteris Pantazis who is often called by the nickname LEPA by the media and his fans, is a famous Greek singer. He was born Eleftherios Pagkozidis on 27 March 1955 to Pontic Greek parents in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, in the USSR. His parents repatriated to Greece as refugees in the 1960s.

André Hossein

André Hossein, born Aminoullah Husseinov was a French composer of Neo-Romantic music and a tar soloist residing in France. His mother was a Persian woman from Samarkand and his father was a merchant, originally from Azerbaijan. Aminollah Hossein lived for a few years in Persia before he left the country for his academic studies.

Muhammad Aufi

Sadiduddin Muhammad Aufi was a Persian historian, scientist, and author.

Jalaluddin Surkh-Posh Bukhari

Sayyid Jalaluddin Surkh-Posh Bukhari on account of the red mantle he often wore. The term Bukhari refers to his hometown of Bukhara.

Muhammad Salih

Muhammad Salih, is an Uzbek political opposition leader and writer. He lives in exile in Norway where the government has granted him political asylum.

Casey Serin

Confidence artist

Casey Konstantin Serin is an Uzbek-born American blogger and a former real estate investor. In a newspaper article, USA Today called him the "poster child for everything that went wrong in the real estate boom". Born in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Serin immigrated to the United States in 1994. After graduating from high school, Serin bounced from job to job, generally working in website design. However, in his early twenties, Serin decided to quit working full-time in order to pursue a career in house flipping as a means of earning an income and building wealth. In an eight-month period beginning in October 2005, Serin purchased eight houses in four southwest U.S. states, and then began blogging about the foreclosure process on the properties he was unable to resell. In time, five of the eight properties foreclosed. The dubious nature of Serin's real estate transactions, coupled with his subsequent blogging about the affair, have led to Serin's name becoming strongly associated with the subprime mortgage crisis.

Marat Bikmaev

Marat Rifkatovich Bikmaev is an Uzbekistani football striker of Tatar origin who plays for FC Aktobe in the Kazakhstan Premier League.

Farukh Ruzimatov

Farukh Ruzimatov is a ballet dancer, the Artistic Director for ballet in Mikhaylovsky Theatre, Saint Petersburg. He was formerly the Principal Dancer and Assistant Artistic Director of the Kirov Ballet at the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg. Ruzimatov entered the Leningrad Vaganova Academy in 1973 and upon his 1981 graduation began dancing with the Kirov Ballet and became a principal dancer in 1986. His repertoire includes such roles as Albrecht in Giselle, Solor in La Bayadère, Ali in Le Corsaire, Prince Desire in The Sleeping Beauty, The Prince in The Nutcracker, Siegfried in Swan Lake, Basil in Don Quixote, and many others. He has also performed as Principal Guest Artist with American Ballet Theatre.

Noble person

Goharshād Begum was a wife of Shāh Rukh, the Emperor of the Timurid Empire of Herāt. She was the daughter of Giāth ud-Din Tarkhān, an important and influential noble during Tīmur's reign. According to family traditions, the title Tarkhān was given to the family by Genghis Khan personally. Gohar Shad was married to Sharukh probably in 1388, certainly before 1394 when their son, Ulugh Beg was born. It was a successful marriage, according to the ballads of Herat which sing of Shahrukh's love for her. But little is known of their first forty years together, except what concerns her buildings. Along with her brothers who were administrators at the Timurid court in Herāt, Goharshād played a very important role in the early Timurid history. In 1405 she moved the Timurid capital from Samarkand to Herāt. Under her patronage, the Persian language and Persian culture were elevated to a main element of the Timurid dynasty. She and her husband led a cultural renaissance by their lavish patronage of the arts, attracting to their court artists, architects and philosophers and poets acknowledged today among the world's most illustrious, including the poet Jami. Many exquisite examples of Timurid architecture remain in Herāt today.

Ariadna Shengelaya

Ariadna Shengelaya is a Soviet actress. She appeared in 33 films between 1957 and 1997. She was married to the Georgian film director Eldar Shengelaya from 1957 to 1980. Ariadna Shengelaya played the role of the Queen Mother in the 1991 released Indian movie Ajooba starring Amitabh Bachchan as the Prince of the Kingdom of Baharistan. This film was an Indo-Soviet venture dubbed & released in Russian language as Vozvrashcheniye Bagdadskogo Vora - produced and directed by Shashi Kapoor and also co-directed by the Soviet filmmaker Gennadi Vasilyev.

Hammasa Kohistani

Hammasa Kohistani is a British model, who became the first Muslim beauty contestant to be crowned Miss England, in 2005. She was crowned at the age of 18, following a two-day competition at Liverpool's Olympia Theatre on 3 September 2005, and was chosen from 40 contestants.

Victor Karpenko

Victor Aleksandrovich Karpenko is an Uzbekistani professional football midfielder who currently plays for Lokomotiv Tashkent in the Uzbek League. He usually plays as a defensive midfielder, but in the 2011 AFC Asian Cup he played as a right-back, due to injury-case absences of some defenders.

Abdullo Tangriev

Abdullo Tangriev is an Uzbek judoka. He won a silver medal in the +100 kg category of the 2008 Olympic Games.

Sultan Rakhmanov

Sultan Saburovich Rakhmanov was an Olympic weightlifter for the USSR who won the gold medal in the super heavyweight class of the 1980 Summer Olympics. Sultan Rakhmanov won the super heavyweight gold medal in 1980 in Moscow when his legendary teammate Vasily Alexeev was eliminated after he failed three times to snatch 180 kg. Rakhmanov made 6 perfect lifts to score a decisive victory at the 1980 Olympics. He also won gold medals at the World Weightlifting Championships in 1979 and 1980. Rakhmanov's father was Uzbek and his mother was Ukrainian, he was born in Uzbekistan. He trained during his weightlifting career in Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine. Rakhmanov was a member of the Soviet national weightlfting team for 9 years. His most memorable victory was, of course, the super heavyweight class gold medal at the 1980 Olympics. For that victory, Rakhmanov was awarded Order of the Red Banner of Labour in Kremlin. After his retirement, Rakhmanov was the Chairman of the International Association of Disabled Sports Veterans. Sultan was an honored President of the Aikido Federation of Ukraine. He also was one of the pioneers of organized armwrestling in the Soviet Union.

• Countries and Their Cultures
• Culture of Uzbekistan

Culture Name

Alternative names.

Uzbeq, Ozbek

Orientation

Identification. Uzbeks likely take their name from a khan. A leader of the Golden Horde in the fourteenth century was named Uzbek, though he did not rule over the people who would share his name.

Modern Uzbeks hail not only from the Turkic-Mongol nomads who first claimed the name, but also from other Turkic and Persian peoples living inside the country's borders. The Soviets, in an effort to divide the Turkic people into more easily governable subdivisions, labeled Turks, Tajiks, Sarts, Qipchaqs, Khojas, and others as Uzbek, doubling the size of the ethnicity to four million in 1924.

Today the government is strengthening the Uzbek group identity, to prevent the splintering seen in other multiethnic states. Some people have assimilated with seemingly little concern. Many Tajiks consider themselves Uzbek, though they retain the Tajik language; this may be because they have long shared an urban lifestyle, which was more of a bond than ethnic labels. Others have been more resistant to Uzbekization. Many Qipchaqs eschew intermarriage, live a nomadic lifestyle, and identify more closely with the Kyrgyz who live across the border from them. The Khojas also avoid intermarriage, and despite speaking several languages, have retained a sense of unity.

The Karakalpaks, who live in the desert south of the Aral Sea, have a separate language and tradition more akin to Kazakh than Uzbek. Under the Soviet Union, theirs was a separate republic, and it remains autonomous.

Location and Geography. Uzbekistan's 174,330 square miles (451,515 square kilometers), an area slightly larger than California, begin in the Karakum (Black Sand) and Kyzlkum (Red Sand) deserts of Karakalpakistan. The arid land of this autonomous republic supports a nomadic lifestyle. Recently, the drying up of the Aral Sea has devastated the environment, causing more than 30 percent of the area's population to leave, from villages in the early 1980s and then from cities. This will continue; the area was hit by a devastating drought in the summer of 2000.

Population increases to the east, centered around fertile oases and the valleys of the Amu-Darya River, once known as the Oxus, and the Zeravshan River, which supports the ancient city-states of Bokhara and Samarkand. The Ferghana Valley in the east is the heart of Islam in Uzbekistan. Here, where the country is squeezed between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, the mountainous terrain supports a continuing nomadic lifestyle, and in recent years has provided a venue for fundamentalist guerrillas. Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Afghanistan also border the country. In 1867 the Russian colonial government moved the capital from Bokhara to Tashkent. With 2.1 million people, it is the largest city in Central Asia.

Linguistic Affiliation. Uzbek is the language of about twenty million Uzbeks living in Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan. The language is Turkic and abounds with dialects, including Qarlug (which served as the literary language for much of Uzbek history), Kipchak, Lokhay, Oghuz, Qurama, and Sart, some of which come from other languages. Uzbek emerged as a distinct language in the fifteenth century. It is so close to modern Uyghur that speakers of each language can converse easily. Prior to Russian colonization it would often have been hard to say where one Turkic language started and another ended. But through prescribed borders, shifts in dialect coalesced into distinct languages. The Soviets replaced its Arabic script briefly with a Roman script and then with Cyrillic. Since independence there has been a shift back to Roman script, as well as a push to eliminate words borrowed from Russian.

About 14 percent of the population—mostly non-Uzbek—speak Russian as their first language; 5 percent speak Tajik. Most Russians do not speak Uzbek. Under the Soviet Union, Russian was taught as the Soviet lingua franca, but Uzbek was supported as the indigenous language of the republic, ironically resulting in the deterioration of other native languages and dialects. Today many people still speak Russian, but the government is heavily promoting Uzbek.

Symbolism. Symbols of Uzbekistan's independence and past glories are most common. The flag and national colors—green for nature, white for peace, red for life, and blue for water—adorn murals and walls. The twelve stars on the flag symbolize the twelve regions of the country. The crescent moon, a symbol of Islam, is common, though its appearance on the national flag is meant not as a religious symbol but as a metaphor for rebirth. The mythical bird Semurg on the state seal also symbolizes a national renaissance. Cotton, the country's main source of wealth, is displayed on items from the state seal to murals to teacups. The architectures of Samara and Bukhara also symbolize past achievements.

Amir Timur, who conquered a vast area of Asia from his seat in Samarkand in the fourteenth century, has become a major symbol of Uzbek pride and potential and of the firm but just and wise ruler—a useful image for the present government, which made 1996 the Year of Amir Timur. Timur lived more than a century before the Uzbeks reached Uzbekistan.

Independence Day, 1 September, is heavily promoted by the government, as is Navruz, 21 March, which highlights the country's folk culture.

History and Ethnic Relations

Emergence of the Nation. The Uzbeks coalesced by the fourteenth century in southern Siberia, starting as a loose coalition of Turkic-Mongol nomad tribes who converted to Islam. In the first half of the fifteenth century Abu al-Khayr Khan, a descendant of Genghis Khan, led them south, first to the steppe and semidesert north of the Syr-Daria River. At this time a large segment of Uzbeks split off and headed east to become the Kazakhs. In 1468 Abu'l Khayr was killed by a competing faction, but by 1500 the Uzbeks had regrouped under Muhammad Shaybani Khan, and invaded the fertile land of modern Uzbekistan. They expelled Amir Timur's heirs from Samarkand and Herat and took over the city-states of Khiva, Khojand, and Bokhara, which would become the Uzbek capital. Settling down, the Uzbeks traded their nomadism for urban living and agriculture.

The first century of Uzbek rule saw a flourishing of learning and the arts, but the dynasty then slid into decline, helped by the end of the Silk Route trade. In 1749 invaders from Iran defeated Bokhara and Khiva, breaking up the Uzbek Empire and replacing any group identity with the division between Sarts, or city dwellers, and nomads. What followed was the Uzbek emirate of Bokhara and Samarkand, and the khanates of Khiva and Kokand, who ruled until the Russian takeover.

Russia became interested in Central Asia in the eighteenth century, concerned that the British might break through from colonial India to press its southern flank. Following more than a century of indecisive action, Russia in 1868 invaded Bokhara, then brutally subjugated Khiva in 1873. Both were made Russian protectorates. In 1876, Khokand was annexed. All were subsumed into the Russian province of Turkistan, which soon saw the arrival of Russian settlers.

The 1910s produced the Jadid reform movement, which, though short-lived, sought to establish a community beholden neither to Islamic dogma nor to Russian colonists, marking the first glimmer of national identity in many years. With the Russian Revolution in 1917 grew hopes of independence, but by 1921 the Bolsheviks had reasserted control. In 1924 Soviet planners drew the borders for the soviet socialist republics of Uzbekistan and Karakalpakistan, based around the dominant ethnic groups. In 1929 Tajikstan was split off from the south of Uzbekistan, causing lasting tension between the two; many Uzbeks regard Tajiks as Persianized Uzbeks, while Tajikstan resented Uzbekistan's retention of the Tajik cities of Bokhara and Samarkand. Karakalpakistan was transferred to the Uzbekistan SSR in 1936, as an autonomous region. Over the ensuing decades, Soviet leaders solidified loose alliances and other nationalities into what would become Uzbek culture.

In August 1991 Uzbek Communists supported the reactionary coup against Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. After the coup failed, Uzbekistan declared its independence on 1 September. Though shifting away from communism, President Islom Kharimov, who had been the Communist Party's first secretary in Uzbekistan, has maintained absolute control over the independent state. He has continued to define a single Uzbek culture, while obscuring its Soviet creation.

National Identity. The Soviet government, and to a lesser extent the Russian colonial government that preceded it, folded several less prominent nationalities into the Uzbeks. The government then institutionalized a national Uzbek culture based on trappings such as language, art, dress, and food, while imbuing them with meanings more closely aligned with Communist ideology. Islam was removed from its central place, veiling of women was banned, and major and minor regional and ethnic differences were smoothed over in favor of an ideologically acceptable uniformity.

Since 1991 the government has kept the Soviet definition of their nationhood, simply because prior to this there was no sense or definition of a single Uzbek nation. But it is literally excising the Soviet formation of the culture from its history books; one university history test had just 1 question of 850 dealing with the years 1924 to 1991.

Ethnic Relations. The Soviet-defined borders left Uzbeks, Kyrgiz, Tajiks, and others on both sides of Uzbekistan. Since independence, tightening border controls and competition for jobs and resources have caused difficulties for some of these communities, despite warm relations among the states of the region.

In June 1989, rioting in the Ferghana Valley killed thousands of Meskhetian Turks, who had been deported there in 1944. Across the border in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, the Uzbek majority rioted in 1990 over denial of land.

There is official support of minority groups such as Russians, Koreans, and Tatars. These groups have cultural centers, and in 1998 a law that was to have made Uzbek the only language of official communication was relaxed. Nevertheless, non-Uzbek-speakers have complained that they face difficulties finding jobs and entering a university. As a result of this and of poor economic conditions, many Russians and others have left Uzbekistan.

Urbanism, Architecture, and the Use of Space

In ancient times the cities of Samarkand and Bokhara were regarded as jewels of Islamic architecture, thriving under Amir Timur and his descendants the Timurids. They remain major tourist attractions.

During the Soviet period, cities became filled with concrete-slab apartment blocks of four to nine stories, similar to those found across the USSR. In villages and suburbs, residents were able to live in more traditional one-story houses built around a courtyard. These houses, regardless of whether they belong to rich or poor, present a drab exterior, with the family's wealth and taste displayed only for guests. Khivan houses have a second-story room for entertaining guests. Since independence, separate houses have become much more popular, supporting something of a building boom in suburbs of major cities. One estimate puts two-thirds of the population now living in detached houses.

The main room of the house is centered around the dusterhon, or tablecloth, whether it is spread on the floor or on a table. Although there are not separate areas for women and children, women tend to gather in the kitchen when male guests are present.

Each town has a large square, where festivals and public events are held.

Parks are used for promenading; if a boy and a girl are dating, they are referred to as walking together. Benches are in clusters, to allow neighbors to chat.

Food and Economy

Food in Daily Life. Bread holds a special place in Uzbek culture. At mealtime, bread will be spread to cover the entire dusterhon. Traditional Uzbek bread, tandir non, is flat and round. It is always torn by hand, never placed upside down, and never thrown out.

Meals begin with small dishes of nuts and raisins, progressing through soups, salads, and meat dishes and ending with palov, a rice-and-meat dish synonymous with Uzbek cuisine throughout the former Soviet Union; it is the only dish often cooked by men. Other common dishes, though not strictly Uzbek, include monti, steamed dumplings of lamb meat and fat, onions, and pumpkin, and kabob, grilled ground meat. Uzbeks favor mutton; even the nonreligious eschew pig meat.

Because of their climate, Uzbeks enjoy many types of fruits, eaten fresh in summer and dried in winter, and vegetables. Dairy products such as katyk, a liquid yogurt, and suzma, similar to cottage cheese, are eaten plain or used as ingredients.

Tea, usually green, is drunk throughout the day, accompanied by snacks, and is always offered to guests.

Meals are usually served either on the floor, or on a low table, though high tables also are used. The table is always covered by a dusterhon. Guests sit on carpets, padded quilts, chairs, or beds, but never on pillows. Men usually sit cross-legged, women with their legs to one side. The most respected guests sit away from the entrance. Objects such as shopping bags, which are considered unclean, never should be placed on the dusterhon, nor should anyone ever step on or pass dirty items over it.

The choyhona, or teahouse, is the focal point of the neighborhood's men. It is always shaded, and if possible located near a stream.

The Soviets introduced restaurants where meals center around alcohol and can last through the night.

Food Customs at Ceremonial Occasions. Uzbeks celebrate whenever possible, and parties usually consist of a large meal ending with palov. The food is accompanied by copious amounts of vodka, cognac, wine, and beer. Elaborate toasts, given by guests in order of their status, precede each round of shots. After, glasses are diligently refilled by a man assigned the task. A special soup of milk and seven grains is eaten on Navruz. During the month of Ramadan, observant Muslims fast from sunrise until sunset.

Basic Economy. The majority of goods other than food come from China, Turkey, Pakistan, and Russia. It is very common for families in detached homes to have gardens in which they grow food or raise a few animals for themselves, and if possible, for sale. Even families living in apartments will try to grow food on nearby plots of land, or at dachas.

Land Tenure and Property. Beginning in 1992, Uzbekistanis have been able to buy their apartments or houses, which had been state property, for the equivalent of three months' salary. Thus most homes have become private property.

Agricultural land had been mainly owned by state or collective farms during the Soviet period. In many cases the same families or communities that farmed the land have assumed ownership, though they are still subject to government quotas and government guidelines, usually aimed at cotton-growing.

About two-thirds of small businesses and services are in private hands. Many that had been state-owned were auctioned off. While the former nomenklatura (government and Communist Party officials) often won the bidding, many businesses also have been bought by entrepreneurs. Large factories, however, largely remain state-owned.

Major Industries. Uzbekistan's industry is closely tied to its natural resources. Cotton, the white gold of Central Asia, forms the backbone of the economy, with 85 percent exported in exchange for convertible currency. Agricultural machinery, especially for cotton, is produced in the Tashkent region. Oil refineries produce about 173,000 barrels a day.

The Korean car maker Daewoo invested $650 million in a joint venture, UzDaewoo, at a plant in Andijan, which has a capacity of 200,000 cars. However, in 1999 the plant produced just 58,000 cars, and it produced far less in 2000, chiefly for the domestic market. With Daewoo's bankruptcy in November 2000, the future of the plant is uncertain at best.

Trade. Uzbekistan's main trading partners are Russia, South Korea, Germany, the United States, Turkey, and Kazakhstan. Before independence, imports were mainly equipment, consumer goods, and foods. Since independence, Uzbekistan has managed to stop imports of oil from Kazakhstan and has also lowered food imports by reseeding some cotton fields with grain.

Uzbekistan is the world's third-largest cotton exporter.

Uzbekistan exported about $3 billion (U.S.), primarily in cotton, gold, textiles, metals, oil, and natural gas, in 1999. Its main markets are Russia, Switzerland, Britain, Belgium, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan.

Division of Labor. According to government statistics, 44 percent of workers are in agriculture and forestry; 20 percent in industry; 36 percent in the service sector. Five percent unemployed, and 10 percent are underemployed. Many rural jobless, however, may be considered agricultural workers.

A particular feature of the Uzbekistan labor system is the requirement of school and university students, soldiers, and workers to help in the cotton harvest. They go en masse to the fields for several days to hand-pick cotton.

Many Uzbeks, particularly men, work in other parts of the former Soviet Union. Bazaars from Kazakhstan to Russia are full of Uzbek vendors, who command higher prices for their produce the farther north they travel. Others work in construction or other seasonal labor to send hard currency home.

About 2 percent of the workforce is of pension age and 1 percent is under sixteen.

Social Stratification

Classes and Castes. During the Soviet Union, Uzbekistani society was stratified not by wealth but by access to products, housing, and services. The nomenklatura could find high-quality consumer goods, cars, and homes that simply were unattainable by others. Since independence, many of these people have kept jobs that put them in positions to earn many times the $1,020 (U.S.) average annual salary reported by the United Nations. It is impossible to quantify the number of wealthy, however, as the vast majority of their income is unreported, particularly if they are government officials.

Many members of the former Soviet intelligentsia—teachers, artists, doctors, and other skilled service providers—have been forced to move into relatively unskilled jobs, such as bazaar vendors and construction workers, where they could earn more money. Urban residents tend to earn twice the salaries of rural people.

Symbols of Social Stratification. As elsewhere in the former Soviet Union, the new rich tend to buy and show off expensive cars and limousines, apartments, and clothes and to go to nightclubs. Foreign foods and goods also are signs of wealth, as is a disdain for shopping in bazaars.

Political Life

Government. Uzbekistan is in name republican but in practice authoritarian, with Kharimov's Halq Tarakiati Partiiasi, or People's Democratic Party, controlling all aspects of governance. On 9 January 2000 he was reelected for a five-year term, with a 92 percent turnout and a 92 percent yes vote. Earlier, a March 1995 referendum to extend his term to 2000 resulted in a 99 percent turnout and a 99 percent yes vote. The legislature, Oliy Majlis, was inaugurated in 1994. At that time the ruling party captured 193 seats, though many of these candidates ran as independents. The opposition political movement Birlik, or Unity, and the party Erk, or Will, lack the freedom to directly challenge the government.

Makhallas, or neighborhood councils of elders, provide the most direct governance. Some opinion polls have ranked makhallas just after the president in terms of political power. Makhallahs address social needs ranging from taking care of orphans, loaning items, and maintaining orderly public spaces, to sponsoring holiday celebrations. In Soviet times these were institutionalized, with makhalla heads and committees appointed by the local Communist Party. Then and now, however, makhallas have operated less smoothly in neighborhoods of mixed ethnicities.

Leadership and Political Officials. The president appoints the head, or khokim, of each of Uzbekistan's 12 regions, called viloyatlars, and of Karakalpakistan and Tashkent, who in turn appoint the khokims of the 216 regional and city governments. This top-down approach ensures a unity of government policies and leads to a diminishing sense of empowerment the farther one is removed from Kharimov.

Khokims and other officials were chiefly drawn from the Communist Party following independence—many simply kept their jobs—and many remain. Nevertheless, Kharimov has challenged local leaders to take more initiative, and in 1997 he replaced half of them, usually with public administration and financial experts, many of whom are reform-minded.

Corruption is institutionalized at all levels of government, despite occasional prosecution of officials. Students, for example, can expect to pay bribes to enter a university, receive high grades, or be exempted from the cotton harvest.

Social Problems and Control. The government has vigorously enforced laws related to drug trafficking and terrorism, and reports of police abuse and torture are widespread. The constitution calls for independent judges and open access to proceedings and justice. In practice, defendants are seldom acquitted, and when they are, the government has the right to appeal.

Petty crime such as theft is becoming more common; violent crime is much rarer. Anecdotal evidence points to an increase in heroin use; Uzbekistan is a transshipment point from Afghanistan and Pakistan to Europe, and access is relatively easy despite tough antidrug laws.

People are often reluctant to call the police, as they are not trusted. Instead, it is the responsibility of families to see that their members act appropriately. Local communities also exert pressure to conform.

Military Activity. Uzbekistan's military in 2000 was skirmishing with the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, a militant group opposed to the secular regime, and numbering in the hundreds or thousands. Besides clashes in the mountains near the Tajikistani border, the group has been blamed for six car bombings in Tashkent in February 2000.

Uzbekistan spends about $200 million (U.S.) a year on its military and has 150,000 soldiers, making it the strongest in the region.

Nongovernmental Organizations and Other Associations

Most domestic nongovernmental organizations are funded and supported by the government, and all must be registered. Kamolot, registered in 1996, is the major youth organization, and is modeled on the Soviet Komsomol. Ekosan is an environmental group. The Uzbek Muslim Board has been active in building mosques and financing religious education. The Women's Committee of Uzbekistan, a government organization, is tasked with ensuring women's access to education as well as employment and legal rights, and claims three million members.

The government also has set up quasi nongovernmental organizations, at times to deflect attention from controversial organizations. The Human Rights Society of Uzbekistan, for example, was denied registration from 1992 to 1997, before the government set up its own human rights monitor.

The leaders of these groups may receive privileges once granted to the Soviet nomenklatura, such as official cars and well-equipped offices.

There are no independent trade unions, though government-sponsored unions are common. The Employment Service and Employment Fund was set up in 1992 to address issues of social welfare, employment insurance, and health benefits for workers.

Ironically, some truly independent organizations from the Soviet period, such as the Committee to Save the Aral Sea, were declared illegal in 1994. Social groups associated with Birlik also have been denied registration.

Gender Roles and Statuses

Division of Labor by Gender. Before the Soviet period, men worked outside the house while women did basic domestic work, or supplemented the family income by spinning, weaving, and embroidering with silk or cotton. From the 1920s on, women entered the workforce, at textile factories and in the cotton fields, but also in professional jobs opened to them by the Soviet education system. They came to make up the great majority of teachers, nurses, and doctors. Family pressure, however, sometimes kept women from attaining higher education, or working outside the home. With independence, some women have held on to positions of power, though they still may be expected to comport themselves with modesty. Men in modern Uzbekistan, though, hold the vast majority of managerial positions, as well as the most labor-intensive jobs. It is common now for men to travel north to other former Soviet republics to work in temporary jobs. Both sexes work in bazaars.

The Relative Status of Women and Men. Uzbekistan is a male-dominated society, particularly in the Ferghana Valley. Nevertheless, women make up nearly half the workforce. They hold just under 10 percent of parliamentary seats, and 18 percent of administrative and management positions, according to U.N. figures.

Women run the households and traditionally control the family budgets. When guests are present they are expected to cloister themselves from view.

In public women are expected to cover their bodies completely. Full veiling is uncommon, though it is occasionally practiced in the Ferghana Valley. Women often view this as an expression of their faith and culture rather than as an oppressive measure.

Marriage, Family, and Kinship

Marriage. Uzbek women usually marry by twenty-one; men not much later. Marriage is an imperative for all, as families are the basic structure in society. A family's honor depends on their daughters' virginity; this often leads families to encourage early marriage.

In traditional Uzbek families, marriages are often still arranged between families; in more cosmopolitan ones it is the bride and groom's choice. Either way, the match is subject to parental approval, with the mother in practice having the final word. Preference is given to members of the kin group. There is particular family say in the youngest son's choice, as he and his bride will take care of his parents. People tend to marry in their late teens or early twenties. Weddings often last for days, with the expense borne by the bride's family. The husband's family may pay a bride price. Polygamy is illegal and rare, but it is not unknown.

Following independence, divorce has become more common, though it is still rare outside of major cities. It is easier for a man to initiate divorce.

Domestic Unit. Uzbek families are patriarchal, though the mother runs the household. The average family size is five or six members, but families of ten or more are not uncommon.

Kin Groups. Close relations extends to cousins, who have the rights and responsibilities of the nuclear family and often are called on for favors. If the family lives in a detached house and there is space, the sons may build their homes adjacent to or around the courtyard of the parents' house.

Socialization

Infant Care. Uzbek babies are hidden from view for their first forty days. They are tightly swaddled when in their cribs and carried by their mothers. Men generally do not take care of or clean babies.

Child Rearing and Education. Children are cherished as the reason for life. The mother is the primary caretaker, and in case of divorce, she will virtually always take the children. The extended family and the community at large, however, also take an interest in the child's upbringing.

When children are young, they have great freedom to play and act out. But as they get older, particularly in school, discipline increases. A good child becomes one who is quiet and attentive, and all must help in the family's labor.

All children go to school for nine years, with some going on to eleventh grade; the government is increasing mandatory education to twelve years.

Higher Education. Enrollment in higher-education institutions is about 20 percent, down from more than 30 percent during the Soviet period. A major reason for the decline is that students do not feel a higher education will help them get a good job; also contributing is the emigration of Russians, and declining standards related to budget cutbacks. Nevertheless, Uzbeks, particularly in cities, still value higher education, and the government gives full scholarships to students who perform well.

Elders are respected in Uzbek culture. At the dusterhon, younger guests will not make themselves more comfortable than their elders. The younger person should always greet the older first.

Men typically greet each other with a handshake, the left hand held over the heart. Women place their right hand on the other's elbow. If they are close friends or relatives, they may kiss each other on the cheeks.

If two acquaintances meet on the street, they will usually ask each other how their affairs are. If the two don't know each other well, the greeting will be shorter, or could involve just a nod.

Women are expected to be modest in dress and demeanor, with clothing covering their entire body. In public they may walk with their head tilted down to avoid unwanted attention. In traditional households, women will not enter the room if male guests are present. Likewise, it is considered forward to ask how a man's wife is doing. Women generally sit with legs together, their hands in their laps. When men aren't present, however, women act much more casually.

People try to carry themselves with dignity and patience, traits associated with royalty, though young men can be boisterous in public.

People tend to dress up when going out of the house. Once home they change, thus extending the life of their street clothes.

Religious Beliefs. Uzbeks are Sunni Muslims. The territory of Uzbekistan has been a center of Islam in the region for a thousand years, but under the Soviet Union the religion was heavily controlled: mosques were closed and Muslim education was banned. Beginning in 1988, Uzbeks have revived Islam, particularly in the Ferghana Valley, where mosques have been renovated. The call to prayer was everywhere heard five times a day before the government ordered the removal of the mosques' loudspeakers in 1998.

The state encourages a moderate form of Islam, but Kharimov fears the creation of an Islamic state. Since the beginning of the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan's terror campaign in February 1999, he has cracked down even further on what he perceives as extremists, raising claims of human rights abuses. The government is particularly concerned about what it labels Wahhabism, a fundamentalist Sunni sect that took hold in the Ferghana Valley following independence.

Nine percent of the population is Russian Orthodox. Jews, Baptists, Roman Catholics, Lutherans, Seventh-Day Adventists, evangelical and Pentecostal Christians, Buddhists, Baha'is, and Hare Krishnas also are present.

Religious Practitioners. Most Sunni Uzbeks are led by a state-appointed mufti. Independent imams are sometimes repressed, and in May 1998, a law requiring all religious groups to register with the government was enacted. In addition to leading worship, the Muslim clergy has led mosque restoration efforts and is playing an increasing role in religious education.

Death and the Afterlife. Uzbeks bury their deceased within twenty-four hours of death, in above-ground tombs. At the funeral, women wail loudly and at specific times. The mourning period lasts forty days. The first anniversary of the death is marked with a gathering of the person's friends and relatives.

Muslims believe that on Judgment Day, each soul's deeds will be weighed. They will then walk across a hair-thin bridge spanning Hell, which leads to Paradise. The bridge will broaden under the feet of the righteous, but the damned will lose their balance and fall.

Medicine and Health Care

Current health practices derive from the Soviet system. Health care is considered a basic right of the entire population, with clinics, though ill-equipped, in most villages, and larger facilities in regional centers. Emphasis is on treatment over prevention. Yet the state health care budget—80 million dollars in 1994—falls far short of meeting basic needs; vaccinations, for example, fell off sharply following independence. Exacerbating the situation is a lack of potable water, industrial pollution, and a rise in infectious diseases such as tuberculosis.

Perhaps the most common traditional health practices are shunning cold drinks and cold surfaces, which are believed to cause colds and damage to internal organs, and avoiding drafts, or bad winds. Folk remedies and herbal treatments also are common. An example is to press bread to the ailing part of the body. The sick person then gives a small donation to a homeless person who will agree to take on his or her illness.

Secular Celebrations

The major secular holidays are New Year's Day (1 January); Women's Day (8 March), a still popular holdover from the Soviet Union, when women receive gifts; Navrus (21 March), originally a Zoroastrian holiday, which has lost its religious significance but is still celebrated with Sumaliak soup, made from milk and seven grains; Victory Day (9 May), marking the defeat of Nazi Germany; and Independence Day (1 September), celebrating separation from the Soviet Union.

Uzbeks typically visit friends and relatives on holidays to eat large meals and drink large amounts of vodka. Holidays also may be marked by concerts or parades centered on city or town squares or factories. The government marks Independence Day and Navrus with massive outdoor jamborees in Tashkent, which are then broadcast throughout the country, and places of work or neighborhoods often host huge celebrations.

The Arts and Humanities

Support for the Arts. During the Soviet period, the government gave extensive support to the arts, building cultural centers in every city and paying the salaries of professional artists. With independence, state funding has shrunk, though it still makes up the bulk of arts funding. Many dance, theater, and music groups continue to rely on the state, which gives emphasis to large productions and extravaganzas, controls major venues, and often has an agenda for the artists to follow.

Other artists have joined private companies who perform for audiences of wealthy business-people and tourists. Some money comes in from corporate sponsorship and international charitable organizations—for example UNESCO and the Soros Foundation's Open Society Institute. Yet many artists have simply been forced to find other work.

Literature. The territory of Uzbekistan has a long tradition of writers, though not all were Uzbek. The fifteenth-century poet Alisher Navoi, 1441–1501, is most revered; among his works is a treatise comparing the Persian and Turkish languages. Abu Rayhan al-Biruni, 973–1048, born in Karakalpakistan, wrote a massive study of India. Ibn Sina, also known as Avicenna, 980–1037, wrote The Cannon of Medicine. Omar Khayyam, 1048–1131, came to Samarkand to pursue mathematics and astronomy. Babur, 1483–1530, born in the Ferghana Valley, was the first Moghul leader of India, and wrote a famous autobiography.

Until the twentieth century, Uzbek literary tradition was largely borne by bakshi, elder minstrels who recited myths and history through epic songs, and otin-oy, female singers who sang of birth, marriage and death.

The Jadids produced many poets, writers, and playwrights. These writers suffered greatly in the Stalinist purges of the 1930s. Later the Soviet Union asked of its writers that they be internationalists and further socialist goals. Abdullah Qahhar, 1907–1968, for example, satirized Muslim clerics. But with the loosening of state control in the 1980s, a new generation of writers renewed the Uzbek language and Uzbek themes. Many writers also were active in Birlik, which started as a cultural movement but is now suppressed.

Graphic Arts. Uzbekistan has begun a revival of traditional crafts, which suffered from the Soviet view that factory-produced goods were superior to handicrafts. Now master craftsmen are reappearing in cities such as Samarkand and Bukhara, supported largely by foreign tourists. Miniature painting is narrative in character, using a wide palette of symbols to tell their stories. They can be read from right to left as a book, and often accompany works of literature. Wood carving, of architectural features such as doors and pillars and of items such as the sonduq, a box given to a bride by her parents, also is regaining a place in Uzbek crafts. Ikat is a method of cloth dying, now centered in the Yordgorlik Silk Factory in Margilan. Silk threads are tie-dyed, then woven on a loom to create soft-edged designs for curtains, clothing, and other uses.

Performance Arts. Uzbek music is characterized by reedy, haunting instruments and throaty, nasal singing. It is played on long-necked lutes called dotars, flutes, tambourines, and small drums. It developed over the past several hundred years in the khanates on the territory of modern Uzbekistan, where musicians were a central feature of festivals and weddings. The most highly regarded compositions are cycles called maqoms. Sozandas, sung by women accompanied by percussion instruments, also are popular. In the 1920s, Uzbek composers were encouraged, leading to a classical music tradition that continues today. Modern Uzbek pop often combines elements of folk music with electric instruments to create dance music.

Uzbek dance is marked by fluid arm and upper-body movement. Today women's dance groups perform for festivals and for entertainment, a practice started during the Soviet period. Earlier, women danced only for other women; boys dressed as women performed for male audiences. One dance for Navruz asks for rain; others depict chores, other work, or events. Uzbek dance can be divided into three traditions: Bokhara and Samarkand; Khiva; and Khokand. The Sufi dance, zikr, danced in a circle accompanied by chanting and percussion to reach a trance state, also is still practiced.

Uzbekistan's theater in the twentieth century addressed moral and social issues. The Jadidists presented moral situations that would be resolved by a solution consistent with Islamic law. During the Soviet period dramatists were sometimes censored. The Ilkhom Theater, founded in 1976, was the first independent theater in the Soviet Union.

Admission to cultural events is kept low by government and corporate sponsorship. It also has become common for dancers to perform for groups of wealthy patrons.

The State of the Physical and Social Sciences

Uzbekistan has several higher-education institutions, with departments aimed at conducting significant research. Funding, however, has lagged since independence. The goal of the Academy of Sciences in Tashkent is practical application of science. It has physical and mathematical, chemicalbiological, and social sciences departments, with more than fifty research institutions and organizations under them.

Bibliography

Adams, Laura L. "What Is Culture? Schemas and Spectacles in Uzbekistan." Anthropology of East Europe Review 16 (2): 65–71, 1998.

Ali, Muhammad. "Let Us Learn Our Inheritance: Get to Know Yourself." AACAR Bulletin 2 (3): 3–18, 1989.

Allworth, Edward A. The Modern Uzbeks: From the Fourteenth Century to the Present; A Cultural History, 1990.

Freedom House 2000. Freedom in the World, The Annual Survey of Political Rights and Civil Liberties, 1999–2000: Uzbekistan Country Report, 2000.

Griffin, Keith. Issues in Development Discussion Paper 13: The Macroeconomic Framework and Development Strategy in Uzbekistan, 1996.

Human Rights Watch. Human Rights Watch World Report 2000: Uzbekistan, 2000.

Jukes, Geoffrey J.; Kirill Nourzhanov, and Mikhail Alexandrov. Race, Religion, Ethnicity and Economics in Central Asia, 1998.

Kalter, Johannes, and Margareta Pavaloi. Uzbekistan: Heirs to the Silk Road, 1997.

Khan, Azizur Rahman. Issues in Development Discussion Paper 14: The Transition of Uzbekistan's Agriculture to a Market Economy, 1996.

Kharimov, Islom A. Uzbekistan on the Threshold of the Twenty-first Century: Challenges to Stability and Progress, 1998.

Nazarov, Bakhtiyar A., and Denis Sinor. Essays on Uzbek History, Culture, and Language, 1993.

Nettleton, Susanna. "Uzbek Independence and Educational Change," Central Asia Monitor 3, 1992.

Paksoy, H. B. "Z. V. Togan: The Origins of the Kazaks and the Ozbeks," Central Asian Survey 11 (3), 1992.

Prosser, Sarah. "Reform Within and Without the Law: Further Challenges for Central Asian NGOs," Harvard Asia Quarterly, 2000.

Schoeberlein-Engel, John. "The Prospects for Uzbek National Identity," Central Asia Monitor 2, 1996.

"Tamerlane v. Marx;" Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists 50 (1), 1994.

U.N. Development Project. Human Development Report: Uzbekistan 1997, 1997.

UNESCO, Education Management Profile: Uzbekistan, 1998.

U.S. Department of State. Background Notes: Uzbekistan , 1998.

U.S. Department of State, Central Intelligence Agency. The CIA World Factbook , 2000.

U.S. Library of Congress. Kazakstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan: Country Studies, 1997.

—J EFF E RLICH

User Contributions:

Comment about this article, ask questions, or add new information about this topic:.

• Shakhrisabz
• Regions of Uzbekistan
• Sport tourism
• Agro & Ethno tourism
• Youth tourism
• Gastro tourism
• Medical tourism
• Cultural tourism
• MICE tourism
• Pilgrimage tourism
• Literary tourism
• General inforamation
• “Uzbekistan. Safe travel GUARANTEED”
• Attractions
• Calendar-catalogue of holidays and events
• International exhibitions

• The Great People

Uzbekistan is a unique country and its history goes back more than one thousand years. Everybody knows that people make history, people who truly love their country and culture. For many centuries, great heroes, commanders, scientists, philosophers and poets had appeared on this land, creating the history of our region, glorifying it for the whole world.

The great Tamerlane, Mirzo Ulughbek, Zakhiriddin  Mirzo Bobur, Alisher Navoi, Abu Ali Ibn Sina (Avicenna), Abu Rayhan Beruni, Al-Khorezmi, Al-Farabi - we can be justly proud of our great ancestors who made a great contribution to the development of the state, science and culture of Uzbekistan.

The Great People  of Uzbekistan

“the father of algebra” - al-khorezmi, the treasury of thoughts of alisher navoi, 8 amazing facts about babur's life and acivity, kokand poetesses, al-beruni – the overman, kyuzo kato: i fell in love with uzbekistan, stars and planets researcher – mirzo ulugbek, wisdom through the ages. abu ali ibn sina, nazhmiddin kubro - an example of courage and nobility, sayyid amir kulol - the great feast of bukhara, cultural heritage.

• Uzbek cuisine
• History of Uzbekistan
• Eternal beauty
• Travel Guideline
• Tour operator license registry
• Domestic tourism
• Tourism Legislation
• Tourist routes
• Public data
• Tourist arrivals
• Privacy policy
• Terms of Use
• License Agreement
• News & Events
• Uzbekistan News
• Press media
• Tourism Rankings

Workhours: 9:00-18:00, Mn-Fr

For any questions

• Destinations
• Central America
• North America
• South America
• Middle East
• Sport & Adventure
• Friends & Private Groups
• Solo Travelers
• Off The Beaten Track
• Northern Lights
• Culture & Heritage
• Whistle Stops
• Honeymoon Ideas
• Foodie Tours
• Hiking & Trekking
• Latin America
• Travel Style
• Interests and Activities
• Tour Ideas by Month
• Continents and Regions

• Uzbekistan vacations
• Travel guide
• Practical information
• Famous personalities in Uzbekistan

Celebrities of Uzbekistan

Warriors, politicians, scientists, sportsmen, actors, producers, composers, artists, there are countless famous Uzbek celebrities even if many of them remain unknown internationally outside their field of reference.

It would be hard to allude to Uzbekistan without thinking of the major figure, for the history of the country, the famous, Tamerlan, also known as Amir Timur. This conquering warrior from the 14th century built an empire based on terror and made Samarkand a capital of all arts, globally admired.

A trip to Uzbekistan is a unique opportunity to get into the heart of an exceptional, traditional musical universe, sometimes as tinged as modern rhythms guaranteeing a change of scene! The composer Abdullah Aripov must be mentioned first because he became famous through a important creation: the Uzbek national anthem, written just after independence and known by every citizen.

The Uzbek musical scene appears as a mix between present and past and mixes with celebrities such as the popular Sherali Jouraev and the scandalous Yulduz Usmanova. During your trip to Uzbekistan , be sure to listen to these melodies.

Top-level sportsmen

Among the celebrities of Uzbekistan , there are numerous sportsmen making national glory. Boxing is particularly rich in personalities. For example, Artur Grigorian was crowned world champion more than ten times in the lightweight category, Muhammad Kader Abdullaev who won a gold medal in the Olympic Games in Sydney in 2000 and Ruslan Chagaev, world champion in 2007-2008.

But you can't mention the top celebrities of the sporting world without mentioning the national star and football idol, Maxim Shatskikh. A member of the Ukrainian team, he is particularly well known for being the only Uzbek to have scored goals in the Champions League.

Recommended articles

What to pack

In need of inspiration?

Receive our fortnightly newsletter: Top destinations, trip ideas, agent tips & more...

Welcome aboard! Keep an eye out for trip inspiration and travel offers in your inbox...

How does Evaneos use my personal data?

Your information is sent to EVANEOS, located at 27 rue de Mogador, 75009 Paris, France, in order provide you with its services, personalized information relevant to you, and practical advice regarding your travel plans. Your information will be kept as long as necessary to achieve the purpose for which it is processed. This information may be subject to an automated decision-making process to assess your preferences or areas of personal interest. In accordance with the French "Computing and freedoms" Law n ° 78-17 of 6th January 1978, amended by the European regulation of 679/2016, you can at any time request access to information concerning you for the purpose of correcting, changing, or deleting, opposing or limiting its use by EVANEOS, or transferring it, by writing to [email protected]. You can also define the terms of use, storage, and communication of your personal data in case of death. For all requests relating to your personal data, you can contact the DPO (Data Protection Officer) of the data at the following address: [email protected], or lodge a complaint with the National Commission for computing and liberties.

Your browser is out of date!

Update your browser to view this website correctly.

Update my browser now

• Visa to Uzbekistan
• Letter of Invitation
• Uzbekistan Day Tours
• Uzbekistan Short Tours
• Uzbekistan Multi-Day Tours
• Uzbekistan Travel Guide
• Henley Passport Index
• Global Connect Team
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Tourism News
• Travel Insurance
• Best Travel Credit Card

Phones: Mobile: +998941800001 (whatsapp, telegram) Email: [email protected] [email protected]

Address: str.Nodirabegim 6/22, 140103, Samarkand, Uzbekistan We are next to Kapitalbank. Parking space is available in front of the building. Office Hours: 9:00 am - 8:00 pm from Monday to Saturday

Notable and Famous People from Uzbekistan

Notable and famous people in uzbekistan.

Famous People Born in Uzbekistan, Famous Uzbeks, Great Uzbek People, Prominent People from Uzbekistan

• Abdulla Oripov (born March 21, 1941), Uzbek poet, politician, literary translator, and former head of the Writers' Union of Uzbekistan
• Abu Raihan al-Beruni (973-1048), one of the greatest scholars of the medieval Islamic era and was well versed in physics, mathematics, astronomy, and natural science
• Alisher Usmanov (born 1953), Uzbek-born Russian business magnate
• Amir Temur (1336-1405), historically known as Tamerlane, was a Turco-Mongol conqueror and the founder of the Timurid Empire in Persia and Central Asia. He was also the first ruler in the Timurid dynasty
• Erkin Vohidov (1936-2016), Uzbek poet, playwright, and literary translator
• Hamza Hakimzade Niyazi (1889-1929) author, composer, playwright, poet, and political activist
• Islam Karimov (1938-2016), the first President of Uzbekistan
• Mirzo Ulugbek, ruler, (1394-1449), astronomer, mathematician, sultan
• Ruslan Chagaev (born 1978), professional boxer, the current WBA (Regular) heavyweight champion
• Rustam Kasimdzhanov (born 1979), Uzbekistan chess Grandmaster and former FIDE World Champion
• Zahiriddin Muhammad Bobur, (1483-1530), ruler, poet 
• Zulfiya (1915–1996), Uzbek writer

02.01.24 Forbes included Uzbekistan in the list of the best travel destinations

20.12.23 Sentyab is Among the 10 Most Beautiful Villages in the World

28.12.22 Uzbekistan Establishes Visa-Free Regime for Citizens of Saudi Arabia

11.07.22 Kazakhstan Establishes Visa-Free Regime for Citizens of India, Iran and China

08.06.22 Uzbekistan to lift all coronavirus restrictions

The Permanent Mission of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the United Nations

The pride of Uzbek people

• Google Plus

February 9 is the birthday of Alisher Navoi, the glorious son of the Uzbek people. This date is annually widely celebrated in all cities and regions of the country. In Tashkent, the poet’s admirers, as usual on this day, will gather at the foot of the majestic monument to Alisher Navoi, which is located in the National Park of Uzbekistan named after him, to pay tribute to the great ancestors.

The biography of the talented poet and an outstanding thinker has long attracted the attention of many historians and orientalists and literary critics. The whole works are dedicated to its research; even schools of Navoi stydies are established. But the relevance of the study is not reduced over the time, because every Navoi’s work deserves volume analysis. His poetics is extremely interesting, diverse with techniques and attitudes are an unusually progressive.

He was born in 1441, Herat, one of the main cultural centers of the East at that time, and since childhood absorbed the beauty and refinement of literary language Farsi, Alisher very early realized his mission to become the founder of Uzbek literature. While studying at school, he was fond of reading poetry, especially admiring the lines of Saadi’s “Gulistan” and “Bustan” and Farid ud-Din Attar’s poem “The conversation of the birds."

The future governor of Khorasan Hussein Baykara was among Navoi’s schoolmates, who came to power in 1469. The years of his reign were a time of flourishing of Uzbek literature. The Sultan himself contributed a lot to it; he was a poet, author of interesting gazelles. Since that time, a new stage in the life of Navoi had begun. He was actively involved in the country’s political life. At the same year, the governor of Khorasan appointed Navoi to the position of Keeper of the state’s seals (muhrdar), and Vizier in 1472. Being on this position, he made a great contribution to cultural and scientific intelligentsia of the country.

The poet on his savings erected over a hundred objects in Herat and other cities, including madrassas, mosques, baths, bridges, khanaka, hospitals, bazars, developed many of the streets. The great poet, a wise statesman was fully connected with the people only and lived with his dreams and concerns. In particular, he directed most of the own funds to charity.

In 1487-1489 years, Alisher Navoi had served as head of the city Astrabad then returned to Herat. Since then, a new era began in the poet’s life; he was more concerned with creativity. The bulk of his works was created during this period.

Navoi wrote his greatest work “Hamsa” (“Quinary”), which consists of five poems – “Abrar ul-Khairat” (“The confusion of the righteous”), “Farhad va Shirin” (“Farhad and Shirin”) “Layli va Majnun”, “Sabai Sayar” (“Seven Planets”) and “Saddi Iskandari” (“Wall of Iskandar”) in 1483-1485. They were created on the basis of tradition hamsawriting - creating Pyateritca (five poems). Navoi’s “Hamsa” became the first work in this genre, created in Turkic language. He proved that you can create a dimensional work in the Turkic language.

Navoi tried almost all popular genres of the East literature, and showed that he had his voice and style. Alisher Navoi lifted Uzbek literature to a new high pedestal through his poetry. In 1498, he compiled a collection of his poems entitled “Hazain al-Mahon” (“Treasury of thoughts”). All the poems of this collection have a volume of more than 50 000 lines.

Treatises “Muhakamat-ul-Lugatayn” and “Mizan al-Awzan” are considered as Priceless scientific works of Navoi, in which he examined versification, linguistics, and then on the basis of his research convincingly proved the Turkic language’s benefits and richness. Navoi also created scientific works. They include the works of literary criticism “Majalis al-nafais” (“Collection of refined”), “Mezan al-Awzan” (“Libra size”) on the theory aruz, “Mufradat” on the theory of muamma genre. He also wrote treatises on historical subject “Tarixi muluki Ajam” (“History of Iranian kings”) and “Tarixi anbiya va hukam” (“History of the prophets and the sages”). The latest work of Navoi is “Mahbub ul-qulub” which expressed his views on social and political topics.

Thus, Alisher Navoi was the first outstanding poet who discovered colorful, unusually shaped world, the world of the Uzbek language, its richness and elegance. This world was captured in considerable legacy of poet and thinker - nearly 30 poetry collections, major poems, prose, and scientific treatises.

Alisher Navoi’s creativity is still of interest throughout the world, it is evidenced by the works of the great poet which are ctranslated into English, French, German and many other languages. Deep philosophy of his work, rich in metaphor, a variety of poetic images attract the fans of literature. In other words, the secret of undying fame of Navoi’s works lies in their high artistic level.

During the years of independence, Uzbekistan has paid special attention to the detailed study of the poet, publishing his works. At the initiative of the Head of State the Year of Alisher Navoi was declared in 1991. The complete works of the poet were published in twenty volumes. Numerous majestic monuments of our ancestor were built over the past period in the country and abroad. A large number of international conferences, devoted to the works of Alisher Navoi were held in the republic, as well as in the countries such as France, Belgium, Japan, Russia, USA, Germany, Kazakhstan and many others

Muhammad Ali,

Chairman of Writers’ Union of Uzbekistan,

People’s writer of Uzbekistan

Sign Up Today

Start your 14 day free trial today

The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

5 Interesting Historic Sites in Uzbekistan

With humans having lived in uzbekistan as early as the paleolithic period, uzbekistan is home to a number of fascinating historical sites. here's our pick of 5 of the best..

Lucy Davidson

30 sep 2021, @lucejuiceluce.

Having once been both a central point of the Silk Road and part of the Soviet Union, Uzbekistan is a country which is rich in history. Today, the double-landlocked country is emerging from the break up of the Soviet Union in 1991, and is home to among the most devout Muslim populations in Asia.

Though it is a fairly isolated country, Uzbekistan is full of relatively unknown sites which hark back to its diverse history. From stunning mosques which punctuate the skyline alongside Soviet-era architecture, to older sites such as ancient cities and mausoleums, here are 5 key historic sites in Uzbekistan for any history enthusiast.

1. Guri Amir

Guri Amir, in the former Silk Road city of Samarkand in modern Uzbekistan, is the mausoleum of the Mongol leader Timur (1369-1405), also known as Tamerlane. Timur was responsible for building many of Samarkand’s most impressive sites, including the Registan trio of madrassahs.

A blue-domed building encrusted with Samarkand’s trademark clay tiles, Guri Amir is the final resting place not only of this famous leader, but of his two sons and two grandsons.

2. Registan of Samarkand

Registan is one of the main sites in the ancient city of Samarkand in Uzbekistan. Samarkand was founded in approximately 700 BC and its location along the vital trade route known as the ‘Silk Road’ transformed it into a prosperous centre of commerce.

Now made up of three ornate madrassahs – centres of learning – facing onto a central courtyard, Registan was the medieval centre of Samarkand. Of these three symmetrical buildings, each of which is elaborately adorned with glazed clay tiles, the Ulugh Beg Madrassah is the oldest, dating back to 1420. The other two madrassahs, Sher-Dor and Tillya-Kori, were built in the seventeenth century under the rule of Yalangtush Bakhodur. Registan is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Samarkand.

3. The Bibi-Khanym Mosque

The Bibi-Khanym Mosque in Samarkand in Uzbekistan was originally constructed by Timur (1369-1405), a warrior and Mongol leader who ruled this important Silk Road city.

A vast structure crowned by a blue dome and overlooking a courtyard, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque was built by Timur for his wife between 1399 and 1405. Much of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque was destroyed in an earthquake in the nineteenth century and has since been reconstructed.

4. Shah-i-Zinda

Shah-i-Zinda in the UNESCO-listed city of Samarkand in Uzbekistan is an incredible complex of mausoleums, mosques and madrassahs. The most important of these shrines, alluded to by the name ‘Shah-i-Zinda’, meaning ‘living king’, is what is thought to be the mausoleum of Kusam ibn Abbas, cousin of the Prophet Mohammed.

Like many of the buildings in Samarkand, the structures are adorned with geometric shapes created using colourful glazed tiles. Some of the buildings of Shah-i-Zinda have undergone significant (and controversial) renovations and reconstructions.

5. Itchan Kala

Itchan Kala is the inner town (protected by brick walls some 10 m high) of the old Khiva oasis, which was the last resting-place of caravans before undergoing the extensive desert crossing to Iran. Although few very old monuments still remain, it is a rounded and well-preserved example of the Muslim architecture of Central Asia.

Today, there are several outstanding structures such as the Djuma Mosque, the mausoleums, and the madrasas as well as the two stunning palaces built at the beginning of the 19th century by Alla-Kulli-Khan.

• The Culture Of Uzbekistan

The Central Asian nation of Uzbekistan is a doubly landlocked country with a population of around 30,023,709 individuals. 80% of the population of Uzbekistan comprises of ethnic Uzbeks. Other ethnic groups living in the country include Russians, Tajiks, Kazakhs, and Karakalpaks. Islam is the largest religion in Uzbekistan with 88% of the population adhering to it. Most of the country’s Muslims are Sunnis. Christians affiliated to the Eastern Orthodox Church comprise 9% of the total population. Here are some notable aspects about the culture of Uzbekistan. 

7. Cuisine In Uzbekistan

Local agriculture influences the cuisine of Uzbekistan. Bread and noodles are an important part of the diet as grains are produced in large quantities in the country. Mutton is also frequently consumed. Palov, a dish comprising of rice, meat pieces, grated onions, and carrots, is a signature dish of Uzbekistan. Shurpa (a soup of meat pieces and vegetables), somsa (a meat pastry), chuchvara (a kind of dumpling), kebabs, etc., are some of the popular food items of Uzbekistan. Tea, both green and black, is consumed throughout the country (usually without sugar and milk). A chilled yogurt drink called Aryan is popular during the summer.

6. Literature

Uzbekistan has a rich literary heritage. Some of its most famous writers of the past include the poet Alisher Navoi whose work comparing the Turkish and Persian language, is highly praised. The 11th-century Uzbek writer Abu Rayhan al-Biruni is famous for his study of India. Babur, the first Mughal ruler of India who came from the Ferghana Valley, wrote an autobiography that is regarded as one of the finest literary works. The country also has a rich oral literary tradition where elderly minstrels recite historical events and mythological stories through epic songs.

5. Uzbek Art And Craft

Like literature, the country also has a long history of art and craft. During the Soviet rule, the same suffered competition from the factory-produced goods. With the increase in tourism in recent decades, however, the country's artists and artisans are once more thriving. Miniature paintings, wood carvings of architectural features, sonduq, silk textiles, etc., are some of the popular traditional crafts from Uzbekistan.

4. Performance Arts In Uzbekistan

Uzbek music involves instruments like dotars, flutes, small drums, and tambourines. The singing style is nasal and throaty. Uzbeki women sing Sozandas that are accompanied by percussion instruments. Today, the music scene in the country is also influenced by foreign cultures. Uzbek dance music is produced by a fusion of electric instrumental music and folk music. The Sufi dance called zikr that involves moving in circles to enter a trance state, is also practiced today. Folk songs and dances are performed during festivals and weddings and also to entertain foreign tourists.

3. Sports In Uzbekistan

Over the years, Uzbekistan has produced many sports personalities of international fame. Djamolidine Abdoujaparov, a former racing cyclist, who has thrice won the Tour de France points contest, is an Uzbek. Artur Taymazov, a wrestler from the country has won two Olympic gold medals in 2004 and 2008. Kurash, a traditional Uzbek fighting art, has gained popularity globally. Football is the most popular sports in the country.

2. Festivals In Uzbekistan

Uzbeks celebrate New Year on January 1 with by decorating a new year tree and gifting each other. People listen to traditional music as they dine with family and friends on New Year’s Eve and sing the national anthem to welcome the new year at midnight. Women’s Day, introduced during the Soviet rule, is celebrated on March 8. Women receive gifts on this day. Other secular celebrations include the Independence Day on September 1 and Victory Day on May 9. With the majority of Uzbeks being Muslims, festivals associated with the religion are observed in the country. The Zoroastrian holiday of Navrus is also observed by drinking the Sumaliak soup. During holidays, Uzbeks prefer visiting friends and family. They usually enjoy feasts and drink vodka. Concerts and parades are also held in the town squares or villages.

1. Life In The Uzbek Society

Prior to the Soviet rule in Uzbekistan, the gender roles were strictly defined in the traditional Uzbek society. Men were expected to work outside the home while women were assigned the role of managing the household and children. Women did, however, often supplement the income by weaving, spinning or embroidering. Things changed during the Soviet period when both men and women enjoyed the right to education and work. Large numbers of Uzbek women entered the workforce during this time. They also attained higher education and became doctors, nurses, teachers, etc.

In today’s Uzbekistan, society is male-dominated but women still constitute a significant part of the workforce. The number of women is, however, low in politics and in the higher management and administrative positions. The society is more conservative in the Ferghana Valley where full veiling of women is occasionally practiced.

Early marriages are common in Uzbekistan and marriages are usually arranged by parents, especially in rural areas. Marriages are extended multi-day celebrations with the bride’s family usually bearing the expenses of the celebrations.

Domestic units in Uzbekistan are usually large with several generations living under the same roof. Nuclear families are more common in urban areas. Families are mostly patriarchal with the eldest male member having the final say in most matters. The youngest son usually inherits the parental house and is obliged to care for the elderly parents in return.

Children are usually the primary responsibility of the mother while other women in the family also help bring up the child. Babies are usually hidden from public view for about 40 days after birth.

Elders are highly revered in the Uzbek culture. Younger people are expected to greet their elders politely. Greetings between men are in the form of a handshake with the left hand placed over the heart. Women greet either by kissing each other on the cheeks for close family members or friends. Women are expected to wear modest clothes covering their body. They are expected to speak in low voices and be gentle and dignified in their attitude.

More in Society

Countries With Zero Income Tax For Digital Nomads

The World's 10 Most Overcrowded Prison Systems

Manichaeism: The Religion that Went Extinct

The Philosophical Approach to Skepticism

How Philsophy Can Help With Your Life

3 Interesting Philosophical Questions About Time

What Is The Antinatalism Movement?

The Controversial Philosophy Of Hannah Arendt

The 9 best places to visit in Uzbekistan

Sep 27, 2023 • 8 min read

Get to know Uzbekistan with this guide to the top places to visit © Ivanchik / Shutterstock

Set at the crossroads of the ancient Silk Road, Uzbekistan is famed for its stunning historical architecture and beautiful mosques and madrassas, alongside Soviet modernism, a flourishing arts and crafts scene, a rich traditional culture, and the genuine hospitality of local people. 

The continental climate brings four distinct seasons, and escaping into nature and visiting off-the-beaten-track destinations are adventures that will leave lifetime memories. Here are our top recommendations of places to visit in Uzbekistan for architecture, culture, nature and immersion in the arts.

1. Registan, Samarkand

Best for dramatic architecture

The historic  Registan  Square in Samarkand impresses first-time visitors more than any other attraction in Uzbekistan. Included on the UNESCO World Heritage list, the square consists of three striking madrassas – the Ulugbek, Sherdor and Tilla-Kori – which together served as a university for Islamic scholars. The name Registan means "a sand place." Since the Timurid period, this has been a place where people have met, important decisions were announced, and crucial events in Uzbekistan’s history occurred. 

Samarkand is blessed with many other historical attractions, including the Bibi-Khanym Mosque , the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis , the Gur-e-Amir mausoleum and Ulugbek’s Observatory – all of them well worth visiting. One day might be enough to cover most important stops, but if you want to enjoy the pace of life in Samarkand, wander around talking to local craftspeople and leave some time for tea and local cuisine, allow two days or more.

Local tip: Opened in 2022, Samarkand International Airport is the second-biggest airport in the country and a good entry point to Uzbekistan. Turkish Airlines, WizzAir, AirDubai, FlyAirstan, Jazeera Air and several Uzbek airlines operate regular flights to this modern airport, and from Samarkand, it’s easy to travel around the country by rail – to Bukhara, Khiva and Nukus and then fly back to the capital Tashkent.

Best for history 

In Samarkand, an ancient mosque might sit alongside an office tower or a modern neighborhood, but Bukhara ’s old city really makes you travel in time. Protected by UNESCO, the historical part of the city still feels completely authentic, with timeless mosques, minarets, madrassas, craft workshops, caravanserais and local eateries. Set around an artificial pool called Labi Hovuz, the central square has a unique atmosphere and is a great place to admire the architecture, enjoy local food, sip tea or slurp ice cream, bargain with souvenir sellers or just have a breather sitting on a bench in the sun.

There are many must-visit stops in Bukhara. Be sure to make time for the Ark , a former residence of Bukhara Emir, the eye-catching madrassas of Mir-i-Arab , Nadir Divanbegi and Abdul Aziz Khan , the Kalon Minaret , and the inspiring Sitorai Mohi Hosa summer palace. 

Planning tip: While the old city might seem compact on the map, Bukhara deserves at least two full days. This is one of those cities where you can discover endless new layers each time you return. Multicultural, ancient and packed with interesting experiences, Bukhara is best enjoyed in spring and autumn when the weather is not too hot or too cold.

3. The Savitski Museum in Nukus

Best stop for art lovers

Karakalpakstan, an autonomous republic in the west of Uzbekistan, lures many visitors thanks to the unusual landscapes of the Aral Sea , the Ustyurt Plateau and the ancient fortresses in the surrounding desert. But one of the most interesting destinations is the Savitsky Museum in the regional capital, Nukus. It’s often described as the “Louvre in the desert” and displays a vast collection of Russian avant-garde art, secretly preserved during Soviet times. Its founder, Igor Savitsky, was an art connoisseur who saved roughly 100,000 artworks, showcasing the rich lifestyle and heritage of people in this area. 

Planning tip: Trains from Tashkent to Nukus can take more than 20 hours; many travelers come by air to maximize time for sightseeing. 

4. Ichan Kala, Old Khiva

Best for stepping into the past

The open-air museum that is the city of Khiva used to be the capital of the Khorezm Shakhs and later the hub of the Khiva Khanate, and it still preserves its own language, traditions and culture. The fascinating Ichan Kala (which means “inner city”) is the fortress in the heart of Khiva, and most of the architectural attractions are located inside of it. Visit the atmospheric Juma mosque, the Tosh-Hovli Palace (with its harem rooms for wives of the ruler), and the Kalta Minor minaret, and you’ll feel the grandeur and tranquility of Central Asia in the Middle Ages.     

Some of the historic buildings have been transformed into boutique hotels – it’s a very unusual feeling to stay overnight in a room of medieval features, but with all the modern facilities you could want, such as air-conditioning and a hot shower. Get to know the culture of Khiva through classes, from baking bread all the way to lessons in energetic Khorezm dancing. 

Best for ceramics fans

There is probably no other city in the world with quite so many ceramic artists as Rishtan. As soon as you enter the town, you will see pottery items for sale on both sides of the highway, but don’t rush to buy here because you will find better quality and more authentic works in the studios of local craftspeople.

Rishtan was already famous for glazed ceramics 1000 years ago, thanks to the unique soil – the richest source of terracotta clay in the region. The workshops of Alister Nazirov and Rustam Usmanov are famous for preserving and popularizing the ancient techniques of Uzbek ceramics art. However, there are many skilled crafters and ceramics centers for all tastes and budgets in the city.

6. Margilan

Best for lovers of traditional art forms

Moving from historical to artistic sites, the city of Margilan in the Fergana Valley is a great place to discover the history of ikat, the weaving of textiles with designs pre-dyed into the fibers. This unique weaving technique has independently developed in many different parts of the world, including in Indonesia, Japan, India and Latin America, but the Silk Road made Uzbek ikat particularly famous, thanks to its quality and the variety of ikat fabrics produced in silk, cotton and velvet. 

Margilan is a cozy small town where you can visit long-established makers of Central Asian ikat at the Yodgorlik Factory , speak to modern weavers at local crafts centers, or just enjoy the abundance of the local farmers market and the laidback lifestyle of this mainly agricultural area.

Planning tip: Margilan has been a hub for silk production since the time of the Silk Road; get here easily by shared taxi from Fergana or train from Tashkent. Come on Thursday or Sunday for the local market. 

7. Tashkent

Best stop for city slickers

The Uzbek capital, Tashkent , is not just an entry point to the country, but a diverse and fascinating destination in its own right. Islamic architecture, vibrant avenues, art and history museums, theaters, international gastronomy and nightlife make for a modern, cosmopolitan experience. Start with a visit to central Amir Timur square, where you can drop into the Amir Timur Museum , view the Amir Timur monument and the Tashkent clock tower (which now hosts two quirky restaurants), and visit a famous piece of Soviet monumental architecture, the Hotel Uzbekistan . 

Nearby, so-called Broadway Street is especially colorful in the evening with souvenir shops, street food and amusements. A short hop west, Tashkent City Park offers plenty of ways to keep busy, with an aquarium, planetarium, dancing fountains and street shows, as well as diverse restaurants, modern hotels, shopping malls and an open-air cinema. For a shopping treasure hunt, head to the vast Chorsu Bazaar , Tashkent’s best-loved marketplace, or the Navruz Ethnopark to discover traditional clothing and accessories, local crafts and authentic Uzbek food. 

8. Konigil Village 

Best crafts stop if you’re short on time

On the outskirts of Samarkand, the village of Konigil is an atmospheric destination. This village is an amazing place to learn about the crafts of the region in one place. The Meros Paper Mill specializes in traditional silk paper, and you can also see the production of vegetable oil, ceramics, carpets and other local crafts. There are places to sample local food and even a small guest house, conveniently located in one tranquil space near the small, tree-shaded Siab River. Time slows down here, and it’s a beautiful escape for a half day or more. 

9. Zaamin National Park 

Best escape for nature lovers

Among the many picturesque mountain areas in Uzbekistan, Zaamin National Park holds a special place in the hearts of locals, thanks to its unspoiled natural scenery. Until recently, this picturesque destination east of Samarkand was off the radar of foreign tourists but well-explored by the people of the area. The air of Zaamin is considered to have healing properties, and nature here is pure and abundant – indeed, the area is often compared to Switzerland.

Many unique types of flora and fauna are found here, including black storks, black bears, lynx and snow leopards, and locals are warm and sincere. There’s a beautiful lake-like reservoir and great trails for hiking, and people come there in both summer and winter to stay in the area’s new international hotels and run in the Zaamin Ultramarathon in June. 

Explore related stories

Budget Travel

Sep 28, 2023 • 7 min read

Experience everything the Silk Road has to offer in Uzbekistan, one of Asia’s most affordable destinations.

Sep 26, 2023 • 6 min read

Sep 14, 2023 • 9 min read

Aug 21, 2023 • 7 min read

Aug 12, 2023 • 9 min read

Jul 18, 2023 • 5 min read

Feb 8, 2020 • 2 min read

Sep 27, 2023 • 4 min read

Jul 28, 2023 • 7 min read

Apr 3, 2017 • 4 min read

The Most Famous

Writers from uzbekistan.

This page contains a list of the greatest Uzbekistani Writers . The pantheon dataset contains 7,302 Writers , 7 of which were born in Uzbekistan . This makes Uzbekistan the birth place of the 75th most number of Writers behind Faroe Islands , and Senegal .

The following people are considered by Pantheon to be the top 10 most legendary Uzbekistani Writers of all time. This list of famous Uzbekistani Writers is sorted by HPI (Historical Popularity Index), a metric that aggregates information on a biography’s online popularity. Visit the rankings page to view the entire list of Uzbekistani Writers .

Living Uzbekistani Writers

Dina rubina.

1953 - Present

Khosiyat Rustam

1971 - Present

Deceased Uzbekistani Writers

Sadriddin ayni.

1878 - 1954

Hamza Hakimzade Niyazi

1889 - 1929

Abdurauf Fitrat

1885 - 1938

1792 - 1842

Gʻafur Gʻulom

1903 - 1966

1915 - 1996

1897 - 1938

El-Registan

1899 - 1945

1858 - 1909

Newly Added Uzbekistani Writers (2024)

Overlapping lives.

Which Writers were alive at the same time? This visualization shows the lifespans of the 9 most globally memorable Writers since 1700.

• Visualizations
• Occupations
• Occupations / Countries
• Report Data Error
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service
• Permissions

Central Asia Tours

Uzbek Culture

Uzbek culture & traditions.

Uzbekistan is home to many cultures: the majority group is the Uzbek, making seventy-one percent of the population, followed by Russians, Tajiks, Kazakhs, and other minority groups. Uzbekistan culture is unique and vivid that has developed over long and vibrant history. Uzbek culture evolved blending various customs and traditions of the nations who inhabited the territory of today’s Uzbekistan.

The main contribution to the development of Uzbek culture was the ancient Iranians, nomad Turkic tribes, Arabs, Chinese, and eventually Russians. Traditions of multinational Uzbekistan are reflected in the music, dances, fine art, applied arts, language, cuisine, clothing, other handicrafts, and rituals. The Great Silk Road also played a significant role in the evolution of Uzbekistan culture as it served to exchange not only goods but also inventions, languages, ideas, religions, and customs.

After gaining Independence, Uzbekistan has seen a rapid development of handicrafts and traditional applied arts, the rebirth of Uzbek traditions and customs, and it could be said that the country has reinvented Uzbekistan’s traditional culture. Today Uzbekistan’s culture is one of the brightest and original cultures of the East. The best way to get acquainted with the Uzbek culture is through our Uzbekistan Tours or the Central Asia Tours .

Uzbek Cuisine

Uzbek cuisine is one of the most colorful of Oriental cuisines. Thanks to the Silk Road, Uzbekistan’s culinary tradition is made of a mix of East and West, offering roasted meats and tandoor-baked bread from Central and Eastern European countries like Turkey, Iran, and Morocco and steamed dumplings and noodles found in the likes of China, and other Eastern Asian countries.

Uzbek cuisine

Uzbek dance and music, uzbek music and national musical instruments.

Music and musical instruments traveled along with vagrant musicians following caravans moved from country to country.

Uzbek Music

Traditional uzbek dances.

The Uzbeks dances distinguish with softness, smoothness and expressiveness of movements, easy sliding steps, original movements on a place and on a circle.

Uzbek Dance

Uzbek national holidays, uzbek games, traditional uzbek clothes, uzbek national clothes.

The traditional costume of Uzbeks remains an important component of the cultural, ethnic, and religious identity. The most striking piece of male attire is the long, striped, wrap-around cloak chapan, doppe. While the women’s attire consists of the plain khan-atlas tunic-dress and wide trousers as well as skull-cap, kerchief and turban.

Uzbek National clothes

Uzbek crafts.

For ages Uzbekistan has been known for its beautiful handmade products. Including glazed tiles to the fines silks, finely worked jewelry set with precious stone, to handwoven and knotted carpets.

Uzbek Silk Production in Margilan

In the early days, silk was considered a luxury and Margilan was the silk capital of todays Uzbekistan. Silk was the most valuable material, that was practiced for the generation of money, as a tribute, and as a means of payment. 

Uzbek Suzani Culture

Within the remarkable traditions of Uzbek art, a special place takes an artistic design of fabrics suzani.   Uzbekistan is famed for its suzani: decorative silk embroideries, striking imagination with bright colors, and a variety of exquisite patterns. 

Uzbek Suzani

Carpet workshop.

Every house in Uzbekistan is furnished with carpets. Although these days they are often factory-made synthetic rugs from China, however traditionally they would have been handwoven locally.

Uzbek carpets

Knife workshops of chust, uzbek knives, uzbek pottery​, uzbek ceramics, puppetry in uzbekistan.

Puppet theatre in the region was a rich tradition going back to the 5th century BCE under the reign of the Achaemenid Empire, possibly reaching its high point of popularity under Timur, who was a patron of the art form, and the Timurid dynasty during the 1400s.

Uzbek puppetry

Karakalpak culture, republic of karakalpakstan.

The traditional culture of Karakalpaks is one of nomadic agriculture, largely resembles neighboring Kazakh culture rather than Uzbek culture.

Karakalpak Culture

Uzbek traditions, uzbek wedding.

Weddings in Uzbekistan follow a lot of customs and traditions from centuries ago. Traditionally, the Uzbek people celebrate their wedding in a very cheerful and richly splendor with a lot of guests. Neighbors, immediate and remote relatives, workmates, and friends are all invited to the wedding.

Uzbek childbirth traditions

Uzbek childbirth traditions.

The birth of a child is a  joyful and significant event in Uzbekistan . In the Uzbek family, the arrival of the baby is followed by several traditional events following the growth of the newcomer. 

Uzbek Mahalla (The Neighborhood)

Uzbek mahalla, notable people of uzbekistan ​, notable people of uzbekistan.

Page updated 15.12.2022

Insert/edit link

Enter the destination URL

Or link to existing content

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies (Google Analytics)
• Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

More information about our Cookie Policy

Hi, I'm Charlotte

Browse the blog.

• FREE RESOURCES
• TRAVEL TIPS

CHARLIES WANDERINGS

THE BLOG FOR THE ADVENTUROUS TRAVELER WHO LOVES A TOUCH OF LUXURY NOW AND THEN

Asia , BLOG , BUKHARA , Destinations , KHIVA , SAMARKAND , travel inspiration , Uzbekistan · February 3, 2022

20 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Uzbekistan

Are you looking for the most beautiful places to visit in Uzbekistan? No need to look further, cause  this blogpost covers them all ! Including some insider tips on how to get there and when to go!

Uzbekistan is home to some of the most spectacular sights in Central Asia . Unique madrasa’s, covered in 20 shades of blue mosaics and turquoise domes, form the typical skyline for most Uzbek cities.

It’s one of those countries that actually took me by surprise cause Uzbekistan is not on many people their bucket list. It wasn’t on mine either until I saw some photos of its architecture. In an instant I knew that I had to see this place with my very own eyes.

It was a wonderful trip where I took thousands of photos and where I fell in love with the authenticity of the Uzbek culture and architecture.

There are a ton of things to do and places to visit in Uzbekistan and probably a lot more than 20 but I always like to write from personal experience. So no adding or recommending places that I haven’t visited myself.

20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Uzbekistan

Some of the most beautiful places in Uzbekistan can be found in Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand . And those are the exact cities that we visited during our trip around Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan is filled with unusual and historical places that will blow you away!

So let’s get started!

The Best Places To Visit in Khiva, Uzbekistan

When planning my trip to Uzbekistan I especially had high hopes for Bukhara and Samarkand. Little did I know that Khiva would absolutely take my breath away. To me Khiva is definitely one of those places one should see before they die . The historical town of Khiva is so tiny and small that within 10 minutes you’ll be from the East Gate to the West Gate. But it’s exactly its size that makes it so enjoyable. Below you’ll find the best photography locations in Khiva , when to visit them and the best place to stay during your visit.

💡 Good to know – At the West Gate you can purchase an Itchen Kala ticket for 150.000 SUM that will give you access to all of the attractions inside the city. Plus this ticket is valid for 2 days !

1. Kalta Minor Minaret, one of the most spectacular locations in Uzbekistan

Before you even enter the old city of Khiva you’ll see the turquoise Kalta Minor minaret shimmering in the sunlight from far away.

The Kalta Minor is an unfinished minaret located near the west entrance to the Ichan Kala (synonim for the old city). It was commissioned in 1851 by Mohammed Amin Khan, the ruler of Khiva, and was supposed to reach a height of 70 meters. Unfortunately he died before the minaret was finished in battle against the Persians. But even just at a height of 26 meters it’s one of the most beautiful manmade structures I have ever seen.

The Kalta Minor was built by some of the finest architects and artists in Khiva and as soon as they realized it would remain unfinished they decided to decorate it. you won’t find any other minaret in Uzbekistan that is so colorful in its decorations and details.

Fun Fact – Kalta Minor actually means ‘short minaret’.

How to get there – You pretty much can’t miss this beautiful turquoise and blue minaret. As soon as you walk through the West Gate you’ll be greeted by it.

When to go – Go in the early morning to avoid the harsh sunlight BUT make sure to come back for sunset! The sun bounces off the mosaics and gives a golden glow to the surrounding sand colored structures. You can’t visit the minaret inside.

💡 TIP – Enjoy the sunset view from the rooftop restaurant at Terrassa Cafe

2. Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasa

Right next to the Kalta Minor minaret you’ll find the beautiful Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasa. The Madrasa is actually connected to the minaret through a small wooden bridge.

These days however the building is no longer used as a madrasa. Instead it became one of the finest hotels in entire Uzbekistan: Orient Star Khiva Hotel .

As you can already guess from its name the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasa was commissioned by the same ruler as the Kalta Minor Minaret. But due to his untimely beheading none of his architectural masterpieces were ever completely finished.

How to get there – This Madrasa is located right next to the previous Minaret and also serves as a hotel .

When to go – Go in the early morning to get the best light. There are no gates so you can admire the madrasa from the outside 24/7.

3. Kuhna Ark Fortress

The Kuhna Ark is a fortified citadel at the heart of Khiva , nestled against the western ramparts of the  Ichan Kala  immediately north of the city’s west gate. Just like the Forbidden City in Beijing it was conceived as a self-contained universe for the exclusive use of the ruler , his harem, his many advisors and servants, and members of the extended family.

There’s only one entrance and the entire complex is fenced off by stone walls. Although they didn’t proof to be too strong when it comes to Russian artillery.

Inside the Kuhna Ark Fortress is divided into different complexes all fulfilling separate functions. There’s the Summer Mosque, the Reception Courtyard, the Ak Sheikh Bobo bastion and the harem.

How to get there – This museum is located next to the Western Gate and the entrance is actually right in front of the Kalta Minor. You can see its entrance on the sunset photo above, it’s the wooden gate between the two turquoise domed pillars. The blue tiles can be found at the back!

When to go – Opening times are 9am to 6pm.

💡 TIP – The entrance fee to Kuhna Ark Fortress is included in the Itchen Kala tickets that you can buy at the West Gate.

4. Juma Mosque – A unique wooden mosque in Khiva

Khiva’s Juma, also known as the Friday’s mosque is located in the heart of the Itchen Kala.

The mosque was designed to house a large number of congregants as equals before the imam and Allah, and for this reason it differs substantially from the typical open-air courtyard-centric architecture that predominates in Khiva. Most mosques in Uzbekistan have arched entrances and domes, but not this one!

Inside you’ll find some of the most beautiful wooden craftsmanship . Over 213 wooden columns support the structure and the Juma Mosque was built on the remains of a former mosque which stood in that exact same place.

There are almost no windows, only a few openings in the ceiling which create a dazzling scenery of dancing light .

How to get there – The Juma Mosque is only 5 minutes walking from the Kalta-Minor Minaret and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Uzbekistan .

When to go – I advise you to go as soon as it opens cause you really want to take out your wide angle lens in this place! Opening hours are from 9am until 6pm.

💡 TIP – The entrance fee to Juma Mosque is included in the Itchen Kala tickets that you can buy at the West Gate.

5. Mohammed Rakhim Khan Madrasa

The madrasa of Mohammed Rakhim Khan occupies a prominent location opposite the Kuhna Ark, the fortified heart of the city. They started building the madrasa right before the Russian invasion so by the time it was finished it wasn’t just a regular islamic school. It also taught other subjects such as astronomy, geography and mathematics.

At present, the madrasa houses a museum showcasing the history of the Khivan Khanate and Mohammed Rakhim Khan in particular.

How to get there – Well since Khiva is so tiny this Madrasa can also be found right next to the Kalta-Minor Minaret.

When to go – Go a little after sunrise or sunset

6. Islam Khodja Minaret, another beautiful place to see in Khiva

With its 57 meters, the Islam Khodja Minaret is the tallest minaret in entire Uzbekistan. The site is named after Islam Khodja, the grand vizier (yes, like Jafar) of Muhammad Rahmi Bahadur II. He was a modernizer who introduced new amenities to the city including a hospital, telegraph office, and non-parochial schools.

The minaret was used as a tower to call for prayers but due to its impressive height it also led a lot of travelers to the city of Khiva. These days you can also climb up the minaret, an activity I highly recommend doing! Especially in the early hours when the morning light hits the entire old city of Khiva.

How to get there – There are two beautiful viewpoints to this Minaret. One is from the main square right in front of it, the other one is in the side street on the right.

When to go – If you want to take the best photos in front of the minaret you have to go at sunrise. A little later the vendor stalls will be out and a red chord will be places around the minaret to guide visitors to the entrance. Opening hours of the Islam Khodja Minaret are from 8am until 6pm .

💡 TIP – The entrance fee to the Islam Khodja Minaret is not included in the standard ticket, only in the VIP ticket. If you have the standard ticket er no ticket at all you’ll have to pay a fee of 20.000 SOM (€1.5).

7. Yar Mohammed Divan Mosque

How to get there – This beautiful mosque is a must visit when you’re in Khiva. It is located in the side alley near the Islam Khoja Minaret.

When to go – You can just visit this place during the middle of the day and still take beautiful photos!

8. Hidden Carpet Store & The Bazaars

How to get there – This beautiful photography spot in Uzbekistan is located between the Yar Mohammed Divan Mosque and the Islam Khoja Minaret.

When to go – We arrived in the late afternoon and it wasn’t busy at all. We asked the owner of the store if it was okay to take some photos and she was incredibly nice.

9. Tash Khauli Palace, one of those interesting places in Uzbekistan

The Tash Khauli Palace, also known as the Stone Palace, is a 19th-century palace and the former residence of the ruler of Khiva, Allah Kuli Khan.

It took 8 years to built the structure, which never pleased the khan: he wanted this big project to be completed in 2 years’ time. Many master builders lost their heads for this reason.

All the parts of Tash-Khauli are connected with a labyrinth of dim corridors . So don’t refrain from going through every single door during your visit. Some of the most beautiful courtyards of this place are hidden behind a small corner or doorway.

How to get there – The entrance to the harem part of the palace is located on the East side.

When to go – Go as soon as it opens at 9am. A little later vendors will put out their stalls throughout the entire place. The official opening hours for Tash Khauli Palace are 9am to 6pm.

💡 TIP – The entrance fee to the Tash Khauli Palace is included in both the standard and VIP Itchen Kala ticket .

Where to stay in Khiva

• Orient Star Khiva Hotel – This hotel is located inside the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrassah and offers a spectacular view from the balconies.
• Erkin Palace Hotel – Located right outside the old city center.
• Hotel Malika Kheivak – In the heart of Khiva and an amazing breakfast spread.

The Best Places to visit in Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Bukhara is another ancient city in the center of Uzbekistan. It was a well known stop on the Silk Road and a must visit place when traveling through Uzbekistan.

The abundance of mosques, architectural marvels, blue domes and detailed mosaics have transformed Bukhara into an open air museum. One where you can stroll around at ease without any car disturbing you. It creates an authentic feeling that is truly unique in the travel industry these days. You almost feel like you’re getting transported back in time.

Below I will list all of the most beautiful places and the best photography viewpoints that you can find in Bukhara!

10. Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasa

The Nadir Divan-begi Madrasa is a puzzling piece of architecture as it resembles a  caravanserai— a combination warehouse and hostel for traveling caravans. Evidence for this is that the main entrance opens directly onto the courtyard; the usual practice is to provide a screen wall to shield the interior courtyard from the public eye.

But besides all of these curiosities the main reason for walking over to this madrasa is its incredible tile work! Make sure to snap some photos during your visit and also take a peek inside cause the Nadir Divan-begi Madrasa is free to visit. Inside you’ll find a beautiful courtyard that is lined with souvenir shops.

How to get there – The outside facade of this Madrasa is incredibly stunning and is located next to a small park.

When to go – Make sure to be there at sunrise! This one doesn’t work during sunset cause the blue won’t stand out that much because of the light and during the day it will be covered in ugly shadows coming from the trees nearby.

11. Chor Minor, one of those unusual places in Uzbekistan

Chor Minor, what literally means four towers, is a little tucked away in the streets of Bukhara. The purpose of the building is not entirely clear, but it likely served as the forepart of a spacious madrasa which no longer survives.

The four towers include cryptic references to religions other than Islam including Christianity, Buddhism, and Zoroastrianism. And indeed, there are certain designs that resemble a Christian upturned fish, and others that faintly resemble the Buddhist “wheel of the law”.

How to get there – Chor Minor is located on the East side of Bukhara and 15 minutes walking from the city center. I went with the idea to go up on the tower to take photos but unfortunately the woman that holds the key wasn’t there.

When to go – Go for sunrise or sunset if you can. When we were there the gate was closed unfortunately and the street vendors across the street said none of them had a key. But it is at time possible to go up the roof of Chor Minor for an additional fee of 4000 SOM.

12. Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa, one of the most beautiful places in entire Uzbekistan

The Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa definitely is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Bukhara, maybe even in entire Uzbekistan! The colorful tile work in the arch dates back to the 17th century and is a perfect representation of medieval art in Central Asia.

When you’re here make sure to turn around as well cause right across from the Abdulaziz Khan Madrasa you’ll find the Ulugh Beg Madrasa. It’s a lot more modest in design but its history is phenomenal as one of the best madrasa’s in entire Uzbekistan.

How to get there – This Madrassah was one of my favourite places to visit in Uzbekistan and is located in the middle of the city centre of Bukhara . The easiest way to get here is to go on foot. We also took a look inside but it’s not well preserved at all.

When to go – Go at sunrise, from 9am the entrance will be blocked by a lot of vendors and it will be impossible to take any photo without a ton of souvenir stalls in front of it.

13. Kalyan Minaret

The Kalyan Minaret is part of the the Po-i Kalyan Complex , one of the most beautiful locations in Uzbekistan. The Kalyan Minaret is one of the most prominent features of the city of Bukhara and with its 45 meters it towers high above the city.

The Kalyan Minaret is also known as the ‘Tower of Death’ because for centuries, it was used to execute criminals by throwing them off the tower.

How to get there – The Minaret is located in the middle of the city center and is best reached on foot. For a stunning sunset view have dinner at Minor Cafe House .

When to go – Go for sunrise to avoid the crowds. It’s also stunning during sunset but there will be a lot more people out and about.

14. Mir-i-Arab Madrasa

The Mir-i-Arab Madrasa is also part of the Po-i Kalyan Complex . Until this day the madrasa is still an active school and for that reason it can only be admired from the outside. Pretty impressive if you consider that this building already stand over 500 years!

How to get there – You can’t actually visit this Madrassah, at least so we were told by the people at the entrance. However the outside makes for stunning photos! It is conveniently located next to the Minaret.

When to go – Go during sunset.

15. Kalyan Mosque

The Kalyan Mosque is the third part of the Po-i Kalyan Complex and is located right in front of the Mir-i-Arab Madrasa. But in contrast to the school you can actually visit this mosque. The Kalyan Mosque serves as the Friday mosque and is the largest in central Asia apart from the Bibi Khanum mosque in Samarkand and the Friday Mosque of Herat, Afghanistan.

How to get there – This mosque is located on the opposite side of the Madrasa and for 10.000 SOM you can also visit it inside.

When to go – The light is the most beautiful during sunset and the Mosque only opens at 8am and closes at 8pm.

16. The Ark of Bukhara

The Ark of Bukhara is the city’s oldest structure and is an absolute delight to visit in the early morning. It’s definitely one of the most special places to visit in Bukhara!

During the course of history the Ark of Bukhara has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. And by the start of the 20th century the Ark was inhabited by nearly 3000 people, making it a city within a city.

How to get there – This fortress is 10 minutes walking from the Po-i Kalyan Complex

When to go – The official opening hours for the Ark of Bukhara are from 8am until 8pm.

17. Chor Bakr Memorial Complex

The Chor Bakr Necropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located about 20 minutes driving from the centre of Bukhara.

Chor Bakr is also known as the ‘Town of the Dead’ but when you walk around the complex you’ll see a lot of mausoleums, a beautiful garden with peacocks running around, a minaret, a mosque and a madrasa.

How to get there – This location is a 20 minute drive from Bukhara but in my honest opinion totally worth the visit. A taxi ride there and back to the city centre (including a 20 minute wait) should be around 60.000 SUM. Chor Bakr is one of those hidden gems in Uzbekistan that not many people know of and therefore one of the more unique places to visit in Uzbekistan.

This photo was taken on top of the roof. The entrance fee is 15.000 SUM and an extra 5000 SUM to take photos. To get to the roof simply ask one of the guys there and for 10 000 SUM/per person they will take you up.

When to go – 8am to 5.30pm from Monday to Friday and 8am until 6pm during the weekend.

Where to stay in Bukhara

• Komil Bukhara Boutique Hotel – An incredible boutique hotel in the heart of Bukhara. The rooms are decorated in true Uzbek style and the breakfast is amazing!

The Best Places to visit in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Samarkand is the highlight for almost everyone when visiting Uzbekistan. It does however have a completely different feel than Khiva and Bukhara. The city itself is more modern and the monuments are spread out over the city.

So unlike in Khiva and Bukhara you can’t just stroll around without bumping into a car. Then again the top sights in Samarkand are pretty much open air museums in their very own right!

18. Registan

Registan is an enormous complex that consists of 3 beautiful Madrassah’s. Make sure to visit every single one of them and that you spend at least half a day here!

The entrance fee is 40.000 SUM/per person and the ticket is valid all day long.

Opening hours : 8am – 7pm

How to get there – When staying at B&B Antica Registan is only 15 minutes walking.

When to go – Make sure to be there at opening time. It is possible to go inside a little earlier. But you will have to pay one of the guards to be let in (100.000 SUM). Important to know is that during this time you can’t take photos on the courtyard cause there are camera’s. You can however go inside one of the Madrassah’s and go on the balconies!

💡 TIP – Come back in the evening to see the domes and the madrasa’s lit up!

19. Shah-i-Zinda

If I have to chose one favorite place in Uzbekistan is is definitely Shah-i-Zinda! This sacred necropolis is one of the best places to visit in Uzbekistan and will blow you away as soon as you set foot inside.

How to get there – If you go on a sunrise mission to take photos I advise you to take a taxi. Shah-i-Zinda is absolutely magical early in the morning and one of the most incredible places to visit in Uzbekistan!

Entrance fee – 25.000 SUM/per person

When to go – The complex opens at 7am and I strongly advise you to be there on time. This will give you plenty of time to take stunning photos before the crowds arrive.

💡 TIP – Shah-i-Zinda is a sacred place so make sure to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting.

20. Gur-e-Amir

The enormous Gur-e-Amir is one of the most impressive mausoleums in Uzbekistan and a spectacular place to visit in Samarkand.

Fun Fact – The architecture of Gur-e-Amir inspired the construction of the Taj Mahal in India .

How to get there – Gur-e Amir is located around the corner of Antica B & B Samarkand .

When to go – Go during sunset

💡 TIP – Gur-e-Amir is a sacred place so make sure to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting.

Where to stay in Samarkand

• Antica B & B Samarkand – A cute local B & B with a main garden. Not to mention, the breakfast is absolutely amazing and freshly made every single day.
• Bibikhanum Hotel – A cute hotel that offers rooms with a balcony and a stunning view over the Bibi-Khanym Mosque.

I hope you enjoyed this article on the most beautiful places in Uzbekistan! If you have any more questions feel free to drop them in the comment section below!

Charlotte Lint is the founder of Charlies Wanderings. Charlotte has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing efficient travel guides and finding unique places to stay. Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

You’ll Also Love

November 16, 2019 at 11:28 am

Charlotte, your photos! STUNNING. I used to work with a girl from Uzbekistan and its been on my bucket list ever since. This post bumped it up a few spots for sure.

Charlotte says

November 16, 2019 at 11:35 am

Thank you so much Tina!! That really means a lot to me! 🙂

Nicola Lavin says

November 16, 2019 at 3:26 pm

Uzbekistan has been on my list for a really long time. Your photos make me want to go even more.

Leslie says

November 16, 2019 at 4:01 pm

omg! The colors. Everything looks amazing. It’s now on my bucket list.

Joanna says

November 16, 2019 at 5:46 pm

These photos are amazing! I am actually planning on going to Uzbekistan next summer, so thank you for these suggestions on where to take the best photos.

November 16, 2019 at 11:22 pm

Absolutely gorgeous photos, Uzbekistan looks like such a dreamy place to visit! Also loving the cute dress flips for the photos, I can never seem to get that shot down no matter how hard I try lol!

Vanessa Shields says

November 17, 2019 at 12:25 am

Absolutely love all of your photos! Uzbekistan looks so pretty and is a country I have been wanting to visit. Thanks for all the great tips and info!

November 17, 2019 at 2:29 am

Instagrammable for sure. These photos are amazing. What a beautiful place. So colorful and such intricate detail on the buildings. Love it!

Brianna says

November 17, 2019 at 3:23 am

Love your photos here! The shades of blue and teal in the tiling look really beautiful to photograph. I hadn’t really considered traveling to Uzbekistan but these photos are making me change my mind!

November 17, 2019 at 8:45 am

Thank you so much for saying that Brianna! That really means a lot to me 🙂

Thank you so much Emma! 🙂

November 17, 2019 at 8:46 am

My absolute pleasure Vanessa! I am sure you would have a wonderful time!

thank you! Well it takes a lot of practice :p most photos the dress goes the wrong way 😉

November 17, 2019 at 8:47 am

Oh you will have a fab time in the summer! It does tend to get really hot thought so maybe consider the shoulder months?

Thank you so much Leslie 🙂

November 17, 2019 at 8:48 am

Thank you so much Nicola 🙂

Bliss Eatts says

November 17, 2019 at 1:07 pm

It’s such an undiscovered country. Your photos of it are stunning!

November 17, 2019 at 4:23 pm

Thank you so much! 🙂

Mike Berg says

January 21, 2023 at 7:54 am

Trying to see the stunning architecture but all I can see is your ridiculous dresses and poses. When is this moronic phase going to die out? Did you even notice where you are or just pose like an idiot and leave to pose at the next place.

January 21, 2023 at 10:34 am

Hi Mike, thank you for this insightful comment! I can actually pose in a dress, learn about the local culture and history and have an amazing holiday all at once! Who would have thought a woman can do more than one thing at the same time?? Shocking!

Leave a Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

• Free Resources
• Privacy Policy

Charlies wanderings is a travel blog filled with unique adventures and wonderful storytelling through colorful photos and insightful travel guides.

COPYRIGHT © 2017 - 2022 CHARLIES WANDERINGS

All rights reserved. Photography and written content may not be reproduced without my permission.

Copyright © 2024 CHARLIES WANDERINGS Theme by 17th Avenue

Copyright © 2024 · Charlotte on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

Geography Notes

Short essay on uzbekistan.

ADVERTISEMENTS:

Lying south and southeast of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan’s territory falls mainly be west of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, and between Central Asia’s two major rivers north of Turkmenistan, and Afghanistan, Syr Darya and Amu Darya, though they only partly from its boundaries. Although the territory does reach the Caspian Sea, it includes the southern part of the Aral Sea. The Soviet government created the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic as a constituent unit of the USSR in 1924, but in 1991 after the dissolution of the Soviet Union it de­clared its independence.

With a population of 24.5 million, the largest in Central Asia, the nation is not only the most populous, but contains the largest number of the native Turkic peo­ples, overwhelmingly outnumbering the other ethnic groups, and have registered the highest growth rate in the region. The cultural and historic roots of the Uzbeks date back to the ancient times. Several cit­ies such as Bukhara, Khiva, Kokand, and Samarkand were cultural, political and trade centers for centuries.

Although a large part of the country is occupied by the extensive desert of Kyzl Kum, some of the world’s richest irrigated oases exist m a narrow band of densely populated area in the east. The most im­portant of the oases is the Fergana Valley, drained by the Syr Darya, and divided pri­marily between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

This and other oases such as Tashkent, Andizhan, Bukhara, Khiva, Kokand and Mary (Merv), Samarkand, and Zeravshan form the rich agricultural tracts that fulfill the nation’s major producer of high-grade cotton. Most of the major oases are located where mountain streams de­scend on to the lowland except such oases or Zeravshan that are located in the desert lowlands.

Uzbekistan is Central Asia’s largest ag­ricultural producer. In cotton production it ranks third in the world (China and In­dia rank higher). Besides cotton, rice, sugar beets, vegetables, fruits (particularly grapes, pomegranates, figs and melons are grown. Known for its orchards and vine­yards, Uzbekistan is also important for raising Karakul sheep and silkworms.

Plenty of sunlight, mild winters, fertile ir­rigated soil, and good pastureland make conditions suitable for the cultivation of these crops and for cattle raising. Raising silkworms is a traditional occupation among farmers, dating to the 4th century. The Fergana Valley is especially known for silk production. The country’s mineral resources in elude metallic ores such as copper, zinc lead, tungsten and gold. Uzbekistan possesses substantial reserves of natural gas oil, and coal. Most of the natural gas is con­sumed domestically, and gas pipelines link the important cities and stretch from Buk­hara to the Ural Mountains in Russia.

Petroleum fields exist in the Fergana Val­ley, in the vicinity of Bukhara, and in Karakalpakstan. Dams on the Syr Darya and its tributaries are utilized to produce hydroelectricity. The country is deficient in water resources. The existing canals— the Great Fergana, Northern Fergana, Southern Fergana and Tashkent now face shortfalls in irrigation waters due to depletion of the rivers.

In manufacturing, Uzbekistan is Cen­tral Asia’s major producer of machinery and heavy equipment. The manufactured items include machines and equipment for cotton cultivation, harvesting and process­ing, and for use in textile industry, irrigation, and road construction. Cement, textile, chemical fertilizers, and tea packing are some other industries. The country predictably exports cotton, natural gas, oil, silk and fruits, as well as manufactured goods such as machines, cement, textiles, and fertilizers.

The country is nearly self-sufficient in energy sources, and agricultural products development. The disruption of the Soviet trading system caused by the collapse of the USSR in 1991 did not particularly af­fect the nation. Since independence, the nation has followed a slow and cautious path of privatization.

Economic develop­ment in the future would depend largely on overcoming the current infrastructural handicaps such as the antiquated means of distribution and processing of raw materi­als. Neither surface nor air transport now available is adequate to handle the trans­port of the produce such as fruits and vegetables.

There are few well-developed highways. Most of the country’s trade was with the Soviet Union; the nation is con­sidering plans to enlarge the trading area to include the developing countries. The majority of Uzbekistan’s popula­tion lives in rural areas. In the early 1990s just over 40 percent of the population was registered as urban and only 16 of the cit­ies contain population over 100,000. Population comprised mostly of the non- Uzbeks.

With a population of a little over 2 million is the largest city of Central Asia, and the capital and the “primate” city of Uzbekistan. It lies in a large oasis along the Chirchik River on the Trans- Caspian railroad in the foothills of the Tien Shan Mountains. Dating back to the 1st century B.C., the city has been a his­toric trade and handicraft center on the historic caravan routes from the Orient to Europe during medieval times.

When the Russians occupied it in 1865, the walled city had a population of 70,000. Several old buildings, mausoleums, and religious shrines survive in the “older” section. Tashkent lies in the most industrialized part of Uzbekistan, and contains one of the largest textile mills in Asia.

Other in­dustries include food-and tobacco- processing plants, and factories that manu­facture machinery, electrical equipment, chemicals and furniture. The modern, planned section built during the Russian period, co-exists with the old Oriental quarters with its narrow, winding streets, numerous mosques, and bazaars.

Other major cities of Uzbekistan— Samarkand (370,000), Audizham (293,000), Bukhara (238,000), Fergana (198,000), and Kokand (176,000) are con­siderably smaller than Tashkent, but are just as important from the cultural and his­toric standpoint. Their histories extend back to ancient times, and they have served as political, and trade centers for centuries.

With the exception of Bukhara these cities are located in the industrial heartland of the nation; each, including Bukhara, on the historic route way (be­tween China and the Middle East) has a significant industrial component. It spe­cializes primarily in the manufacture of textiles, processed food, and machinery. The “old” sections of these cities were partially reconstructed during the Soviet period.

Related Articles:

• Short Essay on Turkmenistan
• Short Essay on Kazakhstan: Alma-Ata
• Short Essay on Korea
• Short Essay on Mongolia

Privacy Overview

• Call us Topics in English
• Privacy Policy
• terms of use

Topics in English Topics in english to learn and fluent pronunciation and writing and facilitate conversation between you and others, whether in school, work or daily life

Famous person essay sample 14 models

Last updated Saturday , 16-03-2024 on 10:28 am

Famous person essay sample , contains many information about one of the counseling personalities who made a big leap in the technology world ,he is Steve Jobs. We will learn all his achievements here in a famous person essay sample.

Famous person essay sample

There are many people who have greatly influenced the world of technology, most notably is Steve Jobs ,and we will learn more about this person and his achievements in the world of technology in a famous person essay sample.

Steve Paul Jobs, one of the inventors and businessmen of the United States of America, was known for his great achievements and served humanity and left a great impact on life.

Steve has held many positions in his life. He was a founder, partner and former CEO of Apple, Steve also served as the former CEO of Pixar and was a member of Walt Disney’s board of directors.

Steve grew up at his parents’ home in an area known as the Silicon Valley, an area known as the US Technology Center.

Steve joined the school in the winter and used his summer vacation at work, he  was passionate about electronics, and in the way the machines worked, he invented an electronic chip in the secondary stage.

The most important inventions Steve Jobs

The Apple II device in 1977: This computer has become a major turning point in the world of computers, which formed the first point of the transfer of computers from the scope of companies to homes, was characterized by a plastic cover.

Macintosh (1984): Add additions to the use of computers It was based on the principle (computers are not exclusive to one),introduce the mouse , as well as custom graphic interface.

(Pixar) 1986: A company specializing in the animation industry, founded by Steve after being expelled from his company founded, and had a capital of $ 5 million.

(Mac OS) in 2001: the operating system on which Apple depends on its various products.

(IPhone) in 2007: It is the latest mobile handset in the world of communications.

IPAD in 2010.

Essay about famous person

I would like to talk about a person famous to many in recent years, he is the author of the book (Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus). The author is John Gray.

Many people know that he is from the United States. And a few personal details about him. I would very much like to talk about his personal vision and how much the differences between men and women are simplified in this book.

Many writers, scholars, and artists have spoken that it is difficult for women to understand their requirements, and no one has previously been able to discuss this issue in a simple and informative way like this writer.

This is the third time I read this book and I didn’t feel boring of it. I always find myself smiling as I read how he describes a woman and how each time he really could know her way of thinking. I find the description of the man is very wonderful as well.

I liked this book because in the end I came out with a lot of useful information and it was not just a book to waste time.

I advise many others to read this book. I would like to discuss it with them and how the writer analyzes the character. I hope to own this talent and present it in the future to readers and to those who like reading as me.

Famous person essay

There is a famous person who I see as a good role model for me and he is a football player named Zine AL-dine Zidane. He may not be popular with many.

This player has very high morals and a great skill level, he is very humble, friendly with everyone. He has a wonderful smile and is not arrogant to any of the players or workers around him,

He also possesses many other qualities such as fair play and reliance on real skill and does not tend to exaggerate to get the penalty for deception.

I followed some of his famous matches on YouTube and watched him play for France. I also followed up when he participated in the training of Real Madrid, my favorite team.

What a wonderful addition to the team. I found it nice to implement his vision on the ground with such a great team. I really enjoyed watching him build those great moments and tight plans that helped the team so much to win.

I would very much like to be of such performance and skill not only in football but in life as well.

Paragraph about famous person

There are a large number of famous people around us, but not all celebrities benefit society or provide it with what allows it to progress and advance, and this is the biggest flaw in celebrities, that if they are bad personalities, they drag society to the bottom and ruin the lives of entire generations, because young people are the most group She imitates celebrities and considers them role models for her looks and style. There is a bad example in our society of celebrities such as those who sing festival songs and actors of bullying and nudity roles.

A famous person essay

Fame is not an easy thing because it has consequences and problems that a person must know how to deal with, as we see celebrities around us such as a football player or a famous singer, they suffer from spreading rumors or false allegations all the time.

When you are famous you cannot live like a normal human being, because every word and every step is watched by those around you. If you talk to a friend, they will say that he is a lover, and if you go anywhere you will find pictures on all communication sites.

One of the celebrities who were chased by news and rumors, the Egyptian singer distinguished for his beautiful singing and who is still loved until now, is Abdel Halim Hafez. Rumors pursued him because he was not married, and they said that he married the artist, Soad Hosni, but in secret.

Essay about a famous person

I like people who have suffered in their lives and gone through some failed experiences, and despite their failure, they continued to rise again and try to succeed.

I also like people with strange difficulties. When I read about their experiences, I feel that I am more energetic and ready to work hard and move forward no matter what the circumstances are.

I love Albert Einstein very much, he is famous for his strong intellect and his influence on the world. He became famous in various sciences, however, upon returning to his upbringing, we find that he faced problems in education at a young age. But he was able to succeed in that to become the smartest person on earth in the world to excel in physics, and get the Nobel Prize.

We can see his story as one of the stories that give a strong impetus to work on ourselves and strive and not let any obstacles stand in our way.

Write about a famous person essay

One of the influential people in my life and I liked him very much is Gustave Eiffel, the engineer who designed the Eiffel Tower, and built the structure that supports the Statue of Liberty, and many of the luxurious structures and bridges that have a modern character.

I can only describe him a genius person who preceded his era in many stages to create several mythical historical landmarks characterized by tradition and modernity.

And no matter how time evolves and the passage of its establishment, it remains in line with life and society and a strong tourist attraction that is not affected or less important over the ages.

I can only say that I am very impressed with his achievements and would very much like to do something similar in the future.

Description of a famous person essay

I would very much like to talk about the famous Alexander Graham Bell. I see that Alexander is one of the great and influential figures of recent centuries, where he took mankind to a continuous and permanent development through his invention of the telephone.

There is no doubt that the work done by Alexander Graham Bell in transmitting the tone of the human voice on the phonograph, and converting it into a signal for the wireless device, contributed greatly to the development of means of communication to eliminate all the old means of communication that required a very long time to deliver.

And it became the cornerstone that changed the world so that we can now communicate through phones easily and conveniently at the same time.

I cannot deny my astonishment with this character and I see that he is one of the most influential people in my life. I would very much like to achieve something similar that will benefit humanity.

Describe a famous person essay example

There is no doubt that I am very impressed by a famous person who helped change the world. He is Yuri Gagarin, the first human to fly into outer space and orbit the Earth.

I can’t imagine how much responsibility, pressure and fear this person felt. Many scientists in different fields can invent something that does not need experiment, but when I am part of the experiment I find it interesting.

Did he feel afraid and lost?, did he just enjoy watching the sights that no one else had seen?, many questions arise in my mind about this amazing and wonderful experience that Yuri was able to experience.

Of course, I hope to get a similar opportunity, with experience and adventure, as well as a benefit to the world. It would be wonderful if my name was written in history like him and continued to be studied in schools and universities.

There is no doubt that there are a lot of celebrities around us, whether artists or famous players, there are scientists and inventors.

But I always tend to search and admire influential figures in history, people with useful inventions that have developed into necessary and important in human life, or people who participated in the success of a useful experience.

So I would very much like to talk about the Wright brothers, who are the owners of the first and longest flight, who clocked 75 minutes.

Which makes them highly influential figures in the 21st century. Air transportation has developed since 1903. Flying is now more smooth and safe.

It becomes one of the most important means of rapid transportation, whether for individuals or goods, and reduces the days and hours of difficult land and sea travel.

Famous person paragraph

Undoubtedly, there are many influential people who played a major role in changing history, the progress of mankind, and helping it to develop and prosper.

Among these great personalities, I would like to talk about Ibn Sina, where he achieved the most famous and longest scientific work and research in the field of medicine. Where he was known as the prince of doctors and the father of medicine. Ibn Sina is the first person to write a book on medicine, becoming the most important medical reference for seven centuries. He has authored 200 books on several different topics. All are based on  an important and correct details, which makes it the first beacon for many doctors, and the spiritual father of this specialty, to which we admits progress and modernity.

He was the owner of the greatest progress in the world, and a great credit for treating many diseases because of the books he published, making him one of the most influential people around the world. Where he worked to spread medical awareness and benefit mankind from the experiences he collected throughout his life. Such personalities I find amazing, great and priceless.

Describe a famous person essay

Undoubtedly, the innovative and developed personalities are the most influential, whether on the contemporaries of their eras, or on those who benefit from the tools they invented.

So I would like very much to appreciate Dr. Rene Linick, who invented the stethoscope that was able to listen to the heartbeat.

A great invention like this came to light as a result of chance, as the doctor encountered a sick case of a girl suffering from heart problems, and when he tried to put his head on her chest, as was usual at that time to listen to her heart, the girl refused to do so, to find newspaper papers next to him and he wrapped them in a cylindrical shape and placed them on her chest. He actually listened well to the heartbeat, to come out of this experience with a new idea through which he can listen to the heartbeat.

Later it developed from the cylindrical shape wrapped in papers, to the modern stethoscope that is placed in the ear and has a rubber wire and a base for increasing the heart rate and other organs. To become the most widespread invention for ages and the most useful and accurate.

Therefore, I find Renee Linick an influential and wonderful person for his ability to develop and find quick solutions that help his patient, as well as the extent of his vision for such a useful invention.

Short essay about famous person

It is amazing to see a young man like Mohamed Salah, a small player with great abilities and high skill. I am very happy to watch him run and dribble the players with ease, it makes me very happy, especially if he scores a goal after dribbling, I like very much his modest celebration.

I also like what he does for his people and his country. I hear a lot of wonderful news that he is doing from donations and medical aid. He is a very good example, an honorable person. I hope to become like him and achieve victories like him.

I also like to own the human side that I have and to become a role model in helping others, and to be of good character and reputation. These things I like a lot about him and I hope to see many other players like him.

Write a paragraph about a famous person

When I think of a famous and influential person of our time, I think about the great inventor Johannes Gutenberg, who invented the printer, which is contemporary to our time, no matter how advanced the technology around us.

He is of German descent, born in 1395, in Mainz, Germany. He faced many obstacles, debts, lawsuits, and entered into many disputes, whether during his life or death, because of money and the greed of others from his projects.

Everyone around him aspired to get money quickly, and he had another vision, which is accuracy and deliberation to make something great that will live for generations, and this is what resulted after that.

But after many difficulties, many debts, and huge financing, he went through everything in order to fulfill his dream. That is why I see him as a great and influential figure, and no matter what difficulties and problems he faced, he never gave up on the dream that he once dreamed.

In this way we have given you a famous person essay sample  in English , and you can read more topics through the following link:

• English essay

Related Articles

Value of Time Essay 3 Models

Car accident essay 6 models

Essay on car 10 models

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Who were the World Central Kitchen aid workers killed in Gaza by Israel?

• Medium Text

SAIFEDDIN ISSAM AYAD ABUTAHA, PALESTINIAN

Lalzawmi "zomi" frankcom, australia.

DAMIAN SOBOL, POLAND

James kirby, john chapman, james henderson, uk.

JACOB FLICKINGER, UNITED STATES AND CANADA

The Reuters Daily Briefing newsletter provides all the news you need to start your day. Sign up here.

Reporting by Lewis Jackson and Alasdair Pal in Sydney; Farouq Suleiman in London; Editing by Michael Perry, Ros Russell and Gareth Jones

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

World Chevron

A man armed with a knife fatally stabbed one person and wounded at least one other in an attack in the French city of Bordeaux, BFM TV reported on Wednesday, citing police sources.

Cuba said on Wednesday illegal drug use is rising on the Caribbean island, a blow to the communist-run nation that has for decades prided itself on controlling the illicit traffic and use of narcotics.