Doris Wegner, editor at the German newspaper Augsburger Allgemeine, recently published an article titled “A Journey Through Uzbekistan: A High-Speed Train Under a Blue Sky”. Wegner had taken part in a press tour to Uzbekistan, and her article delves into rich Uzbek history, modern developments, and cultural heritage of Uzbekistan.
Wegner’s article paints a vivid picture of modern Uzbekistan, while also evoking images of the ancient Silk Road, fragrant spices, and the caravans that once traveled between cities featured in the famous tale “A Thousand and One Nights.” She highlights the convenience of modern travel to Uzbekistan, noting that the high-speed Afrosiab trains allow visitors to journey from Tashkent to renowned cities like Samarkand and Bukhara in just a few hours, passing through the same towns where camel and horse caravans once traversed.
Describing Uzbekistan as a "land of blue domes," Wegner emphasizes the historical significance of the Uzbek cities, which were key stops on the Silk Road and are home to architectural treasures and profound contributions to science. These cities, including Samarkand and Bukhara, are celebrated for their monumental buildings and the intellectual legacy of many notable scientists and thinkers who influenced the course of world civilization.
The article also highlights the allure of Samarkand, where visitors are eager to admire the blue domes, madrassas, mausoleums, and historical monuments built by Amir Temur and the Temurid dynasty.
Wegner continues her account with a visit to Bukhara, an ancient city that was once a vibrant center for trade, intellectual exchange, and culture. In Bukhara’s bustling bazaars, valuable books were traded, and one of the most treasured items was an astronomy book written in 1085. Wegner describes her visit to the National Library of Uzbekistan, where she had the opportunity to see this historical manuscript, reflecting Bukhara’s importance in advancing scientific knowledge, particularly in astrology, which was essential for guiding caravans across the vast deserts.
Finally, Wegner turns her attention to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital, which has rapidly grown into one of the world’s megacities. She notes significant construction projects underway, including the Center for Islamic Civilization. When completed, this center will become the largest museum of Islamic culture in Central Asia, further showcasing Uzbekistan’s rich heritage and its ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting its cultural and scientific contributions to the world.
