Tashkent Announces International Contest to Design New Entrance Gates

The city authority (hokimiyat) of Tashkent has announced the start of an international competition to develop a sketch concept for four entrance gates to the capital of Uzbekistan. The new gates will be created at the Rohat, Bektemir, Erkin, and Uchkahramon posts. The project should embody modern and traditional ideas, with construction planned to begin by the end of this year. The competition is open to both Uzbek and international participants, and those wishing to participate can submit their works individually or in teams. The three best works will receive cash prizes from 30 to 100 million UZS ($2,350 to $7,800). The winner will be announced on November 30. Until the 19th century, Tashkent was surrounded by a mighty fortress wall divided by 12 gates. At first, the fortress of Binkenta (the former name of Tashkent) had seven gates, but with the city's expansion by 1864, their number reached 12. Since the shape of the city wall coincided with the system of stars, the gates were built according to the location of 12 stars of the Zodiac according to the cycle of Muchal. Thus, 12 gates were the earthly reflection of heavenly luminaries. Tashkent was the only city in the world with such celestial gates. These gates were destroyed, and the fortress wall was demolished in the late 19th century. But in recent years, there have been repeated ideas to restore part of the entrance gates. In June 2022, the Tashkent hokimiyat presented the first sketches for the fortress gates.

Uzbekistan Travel Tips from Professional Guide Eleonora Radjabova

Uzbekistan is increasingly attracting tourists from all over the world, eager to experience its rich cultural heritage, unique architecture and spectacular landscape. Eleonora Radjabova, a professional guide in Uzbekistan since 2007, spoke to TCA about her own favorite locations and provided tips on how to make the most of your trip to her country. [caption id="attachment_22627" align="aligncenter" width="720"] photo: elya.uz.guide - Eleonora Radjabova[/caption]   TCA: What are your personal favorite places and activities in Uzbekistan? My favorite places and activities in Uzbekistan highlight the diversity and richness of the natural environment and cultural experiences my country has to offer. I especially love Bukhara for its ancient historical heritage and architectural masterpieces. Walking through the narrow streets and markets of this medieval city is a unique and immersive experience filled with dazzling, iconic monuments at every turn. [caption id="attachment_22628" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] photo: TCA -Bukhara[/caption]   For those wishing a flavor of Uzbekistan’s landscape, I recommend Chimgan and Amirsoy, both within easy reach of Tashkent. Chimgan, set in the Ugam Chatkal National Park and 85 kilometers from the city, is perfect for an active vacation. Sometimes known as ‘Uzbek Switzerland’ with mountains rising to 3309m above sea level, Chimgan has facilities for various extreme sports. In winter, it operates as a ski-resort whilst in summer, paragliding provides an exhilarating experience and breath-taking views of the terrain from high in the air. Apart from being ideal for day-trippers, the resort which specializes in eco-tourism, offers a wide range of accommodation for longer stays. [caption id="attachment_22630" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] photo: skipedia.ru -Chimgan[/caption]   Amirsoy, just 65 kilometers from Tashkent, offers an easily accessible respite from city life. Flanked by the Chaktal Ridge and Tian Shan mountains, its beautiful rolling landscape offers numerous trails for hiking and walking, alongside spas and pools. [caption id="attachment_22634" align="aligncenter" width="497"] photo: Uzbek Travel -Amirsoy[/caption]   Lake Aidarkul, a unique oasis of sorts in the Kyzylkum Desert, is another of my favorite places to relax and enjoy outdoor recreation. It is especially beautiful in August when people come to its shores to enjoy the sunset then gaze at the starry sky. A natural wilderness and home to rare species of birds as well as pelicans, herons, geese and black storks, the area is a mecca for birdwatchers. Visitors can also experience a unique taste of nomadic life by embarking on a trip through the desert on camels – “ships of the desert"-  to spend a night in a yurt. [caption id="attachment_22631" align="aligncenter" width="900"] photo:adantour.com -Lake Aidarkul[/caption]   TCA: Why are these places and activities especially dear to you? These places and activities recharge my vigor, positively influence my mood, and I return to the city, to my work, with new ideas and impressions.  TCA: What tips can you offer tourists to get the most out of their visit?  It’s all about forward planning! I recommend determining in advance, aspects of the country which interest you most -historical monuments, culture, nature, cuisine -to help pick a tour tailored to your preferences. Make...