Afrosiyab archaeological site and museum

The Afrosiyab archaeological site in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, is one of Central Asia’s most significant ancient settlements, dating back to the 7th century BCE. Once the thriving heart of pre-Mongol Samarkand, Afrosiyab was a major Silk Road hub before its destruction by Genghis Khan in 1220. Today, the site reveals layers of history through excavated palaces, fortifications, and Zoroastrian temples. The adjacent Afrosiyab Museum displays remarkable artifacts, including 7th-century Sogdian frescoes, pottery, and coins, offering insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage. A visit to Afrosiyab provides a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Sogdiana and its role in Eurasian history.