Almaty mirrors the country’s ascending aspirations and reflects a lot of its past under the Russian influence. The Zenkov Cathedral is the second largest wood building in the world and among the most visited places, while the seven mosques of the city have all been built after independence. The modern part of Almaty resembles western cities and impresses with its backdrop of the Tian Shan mountain range.
Ashgabat
The Capital of Turkmenistan
Ashgabat surprises with its eclectic architectural mixture and its location in the Karakum Desert. Here you see the magnificent white marble Palace of Turkmenbashi, the National Museum and the Independence Monument. Experience the atmosphere of a traditional bazaar or go for a ride on the unique indoor Ferris wheel—whatever you do, it’s impossible to miss the omnipresent golden statues of the Turkmen head of state.
Bukhara
City of Museums
Bukhara has preserved its ancient appearance in its extensive, unparalleled collection of authentic architecture. Situated in the midst of Kyzylkum Desert, Bukhara boasts about 1,000 historic monuments evoking the golden age of the legendary Silk Road.
Samarkand
The Most Beautiful City in the World
Samarkand's giant Registan Square is certainly among the most notable architectural complexes in Central Asia. But it is also a center of local craftsmanship, where you can watch how silk rugs are being made and how to manufacture paper from mulberry bark.
Khiva
A City Within a City
Built from stone, Khiva was once one of the ancient Silk Road’s most prominent oases. Its palaces, mosques, minarets, mausoleums and madrasas represent one of the well-preserved clusters of medieval oriental urban architecture.
Merv
A Most Ancient City
Merv was destroyed by Genghis Khan’s son Toloi in 1221, but its ruins are still nothing but stunning. The initial impression here is one of disbelief: gigantic walls and ramparts just standing in the middle of the desert next to the imposing ruins of ancient buildings such as the Tomb of Sultan Sanjar, the Maidens’ Castle and many more.