Uzbekistan is rich in history. Samarkand was conquered by Alexander the Great. Islam was introduced by Arabs in the 8th-9th century. The most famous leader to come from Uzbekistan is Tamerlane who was born in Shahrisabz south of Samarkand. Russia conquered Uzbekistan in the late 19th century. Stiff resistance to the Red Army after World War I was eventually suppressed and a socialist republic set up in 1924. During the Soviet era, intensive production of "white gold" (cotton) and grain led to overuse of agrochemicals and the depletion of water supplies, which have left the land poisoned and the Aral Sea and certain rivers half dry.
Uzbekistan gained independence in 1991, following the break up of the Soviet Union. The country is nominally a democracy, however, since 1991 it has been run by President Islam Karimov.
The country is wealthy in natural resources, yet most of the money is distributed into the president's ruling circle of friends and political allies. While Tashkent is booming with construction and development, The country's isolation from the rest of the world in addition to its authoritarian government has left Uzbekistan as one of the poorest and least developed countries in Asia. The country also has the distinction of being the most corrupt former USSR state.
January 1 New Year (Yangi Yil Bayrami)
March 8 International Women's Day (Xalqaro Xotin-Qizlar Kuni)
March 21 Navroz (Persian New Year) (Navro'z Bayrami)
May 9 Remembrance Day, Peace Day or Liberation Day (Xotira va Qadirlash Kuni), remembering that Uzbek troups participated in the Soviet army and that 500.000 Uzbek soldiers were killed in World War II.
September 1 Independence Day (Mustaqillik Kuni), remembering the proclamation of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991
October 1 Teachers' Day (O'qituvchi va Murabbiylar Kuni)
December 8 Constitution Day (Konstitutsiya Kuni), remembering the proclamation of the first constitution of independent Uzbekistan in 1992.
Holidays in accordance with the lunar year: the dates of these holidays vary according to the lunar calendar.
1) Kurban Khait (Qurbon Hayit)
Join our excursions. Discover traditions, unique history, culture of Uzbekistan and taste its superb cuisine.
Tashkent City Glimpse tour: Visit Independence Square, Broadway Street with artist and souvenirs...
Spend Your honeymoon in fabulous place where You can wake up every morning in paradise with fresh clean...
Enjoy the celebration of Navruz holiday in Uzbekistan! Folk and ethnographic groups demonstrate the unique sides of Navruz holiday by performing live songs and dances on the stage.
