Afrosiyab Museum

Located near the ancient settlement of Afrosyiab, the Afrosiyab Museum in Samarkand stands as a tribute to the city's rich history, nestled in the northern part near the central bazaar and the ancient hills of Afrosiyab. Once a bustling center, Afrosyiab was tragically razed by the Mongols in the 13th century. The museum traces Samarkand's evolution from the era of Alexander the Great through captivating exhibits including ossuaries, ancient weaponry like swords and arrows, coins, pottery, and exquisite frescoes from the Samarkand palace of the Ikhshidid dynasty.

Ongoing excavations since the late 19th century continue to unravel the secrets of this ancient city. Among the museum's highlights are stunning paintings and murals on the preserved walls from 7th-9th centuries, vividly depicting scenes of hunting and festivities. Designed by architect Bagdasar Arzumanyan in 1970, the museum building itself is a testament to architectural history, giving you a journey through time and culture.