Samarkand was founded in the VIII century BC and is considered one of the most ancient still existing cities. It was the most important trade points on the Great Silk Road, and due to its geographical location, Samarkand both flourished over the years and was subjected to raids and destruction. Numerous architectural monuments of the city were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, which indicates their value and significance.
Samarkand is the second-largest City in Uzbekistan in terms of area and population. Located in the valley of the Zerafshan River, it has a subtropical inland climate, with warm winters and hot summers. Samarkand is known as the oldest center of civilization in the region and is now one of the most important educational and scientific centers of the Central Asia. Transport links in the City are rapidly improving: there is an international airport in the City and a railway with international routes. The City has a well-developed tourism sector.