Tashkent, the vibrant capital of Uzbekistan, seamlessly blends Soviet-era architecture with traditional Islamic heritage, creating a city that feels both historic and modern. As the largest city in Central Asia, it serves as the cultural, economic, and political heart of the country. From bustling bazaars and grand mosques to wide boulevards and remnants of Soviet influence, Tashkent offers a fascinating mix of old and new.

Despite being largely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1966, the city retains pockets of history, particularly in its well-preserved old town. With a diverse culinary scene, efficient metro system, and welcoming locals, Tashkent is a destination worth exploring beyond just a stopover.

Hasti Imam Complex: A Spiritual and Historical Landmark

Our first stop in Tashkent was the Hasti Imam Complex, the spiritual heart of the city and one of Uzbekistan’s most significant religious sites. Nestled in the old town, this complex is renowned for its stunning Islamic architecture, deep cultural significance, and collection of sacred sites.

We began our visit with the Kaffal Ash-Shashiy Mausoleum, the final resting place of the revered Islamic scholar and poet, Abu Bakr Kaffal Ash-Shashiy. The mausoleum, with its elegant brickwork and distinct Central Asian architectural style, exudes an air of tranquillity. Many locals come here to pay their respects, making it not just a historical landmark but also an important place of spiritual significance.

One of the key highlights was the Barakhan Medresa, a beautifully restored madrasa that once served as a centre for Islamic learning. Its intricate tilework, grand archways, and peaceful courtyards provided a glimpse into Uzbekistan’s scholarly traditions. Though no longer an active school, the madrasa now houses workshops and craft shops where artisans display their traditional calligraphy and ceramics.

The mosque within the complex stood out with its elegant minarets and spacious prayer hall. Though modern restorations have taken place, the mosque retains a sense of timeless beauty, serving as a place of worship and reflection for locals.

A highlight of the visit was the Muyi Muborak Library, home to one of the world’s oldest Qurans, dating back to the 7th century. Seeing this ancient manuscript up close [no photo or video allowed inside], with its delicate Kufic script on deerskin, was a truly remarkable experience, adding a profound historical dimension to our visit.

Chorsu Bazaar: A Bustling Hub of Local Life

Our next stop was Chorsu Bazaar, Tashkent’s most famous and vibrant market, where centuries-old trading traditions continue to thrive. Located in the heart of the old town, this sprawling bazaar is housed under a striking turquoise dome, sheltering rows of stalls brimming with fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, nuts, and traditional Uzbek delicacies.

Before entering, our driver reconfirmed whether we were vegetarians and thoughtfully guided us to the upper levels, ensuring we avoided the bustling meat section. This level offered an incredible variety of local specialties, including fragrant spices, golden-hued saffron, and colorful sweets like navat (crystallized sugar) and halva. The market’s energy was infectious, with vendors enthusiastically calling out their best offers and offering generous samples to passing shoppers. Wandering through the bazaar, we got a true taste of everyday life in Uzbekistan, experiencing firsthand the rich culinary culture and the warmth of local hospitality.

Remembering Resilience: Earthquake Monument & World War Monument

After exploring the lively Chorsu Bazaar, we headed to the Earthquake Monument, a solemn tribute to the devastating 1966 earthquake that reshaped Tashkent. The monument features a striking sculpture of a man shielding his family, symbolizing the resilience of the Uzbek people in the face of disaster. Walking around the site, we reflected on how the city was rebuilt with the support of the Soviet republics, transforming Tashkent into the modern capital it is today.

Next, we visited the World War Monument, dedicated to the Uzbek soldiers who lost their lives in World War II. The site is marked by an eternal flame and a long corridor of remembrance, where the names of fallen soldiers are inscribed on plaques. The solemn atmosphere and the sheer scale of the memorial made it a deeply moving experience, offering a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war.

The Mother Waiting for Her Son sculpture at the World War Monument is one of the most poignant symbols of loss and hope in Tashkent. The statue depicts a grieving mother sitting solemnly, her gaze fixed in the distance, waiting for a son who never returned from war. Her expression, filled with sorrow and quiet strength, captures the emotional weight of the countless families who endured similar fates. Set against the backdrop of the eternal flame and the long corridor of remembrance, the sculpture serves as a powerful tribute to the sacrifices made during World War II.

Tashkent Metro: A Journey Through Art and History

To wrap up the day, we took a ride on the Tashkent Metro, an experience that wasn’t part of our planned itinerary but turned out to be one of the highlights of the day. Initially, we had requested to be dropped off at a metro station so we could experience the system ourselves and take a taxi back to the hotel. However, in a thoughtful gesture, our driver not only accompanied us on the ride but also ensured we got back safely.

The Tashkent Metro, inaugurated in 1977, was the first subway system in Central Asia and remains one of the most visually stunning metros in the world. Built during the Soviet era, it was designed not just as a means of transportation but as an underground museum, with each station featuring elaborate architectural and artistic elements. Today, the metro consists of four lines—Chilonzor, Oʻzbekiston, Yunusobod, and the recently added Circle Line—connecting different parts of the city efficiently.

We boarded the metro at Kosmonavtlar on the Oʻzbekiston Line, a station dedicated to space exploration. The deep blue ceramic tiles and portraits of Soviet cosmonauts, including Yuri Gagarin, created an almost otherworldly atmosphere, making it one of the most unique stations in the network.

Our stop at Alisher Navoiy, an interchange station, allowed us to explore Paxtakor on the Chilonzor Line—Tashkent’s oldest metro line. While Alisher Navoiy is a tribute to the great Uzbek poet, adorned with exquisite oriental-style tilework, Paxtakor features striking white marble columns and a design inspired by Uzbekistan’s rich cotton industry.

Riding the Tashkent Metro is more than just a convenient way to get around—it’s a journey through the country’s history, culture, and artistic heritage. Each station tells a story, reflecting Uzbekistan’s traditions, Soviet-era grandeur, and modern influences. The metro is also one of the most affordable and efficient ways to navigate the city, making it a must-do for any traveller. Besides the ones we visited you could also include Mustaqillik Maydoni (again on the Chilonzor Line), featuring grand Soviet-era chandeliers and intricate marble details.

Taking a ride on the Tashkent Metro turned out to be an unexpected highlight of our day, offering a glimpse into the city’s art, history, and everyday life—all underground.