“Everything I have heard about Marakanda is true, except that it’s more beautiful than I ever imagined” - Alexander the Great during his conquest in 329 BC.

Uzbekistan is the epitome of intricate architecture and ancient cities, all deeply infused with a rich history of the Silk Road. While I only had the chance to visit one city, it still felt surreal to be standing at a site where people from all over the world came to study theology, astronomy, and philosophy in the madrassas and mosques centuries ago.

The display of stunning mosaics, reliefs, and tile work is something to remember amidst soaking in the historical and cultural sights. We visited the tomb of Amir Timur, who was remembered for the barbarity of his conquests from India and Russia to the Mediterranean Sea and for the cultural achievements of his dynasty. His Timurid Empire rivalled the size and power of the Mongolian domain forged by Genghis Khan a century earlier.

View video travelogue here.