Samarkand

Founded in the 7th century BC, Samarkand is the jewel of the Silk Road and former capital of Tamerlane's empire. Registan Square — three grand 15th-17th century madrasas facing each other — is one of the most beautiful plazas in the Islamic world. The Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, and Gur-e-Amir mausoleum complete an ensemble listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001.