Uzbekistan’s Fergana Valley is the country’s most productive oil area. The length of this valley, which is formed like a diamond, is about 300 km from east to west and 170 km from north to south. Because of the valley’s very rich soil, it is often regarded as the agricultural capital of the nation. The Fergana Valley has copious quantities of natural resources, including gold, copper, and oil, amongst others. Agriculture, industry, and commerce all play an essential role in Fergana’s economy, which is why all three of these spheres are so vital to the country’s overall financial health. The whole area is well-known for the high level of workmanship that its inhabitants possess.
Because of its position on the Silk Route in the second century B.C., ‘Ershi,’ also known as the old Fergana Valley, was a significant commercial hub across the globe at that time. Arabs conquered the principal city of Fergana in the seventh century and made it their capital. The beginning of the Russian revolution took place in the city throughout the 19th century. The valley was further divided into the Soviet Republics of Uzbekistan, Tadjikistan, and Kirghizia in 1924, and Uzbekistan received control of the most important city in the Fergana region.
Main Tourist Attractions of Fergana Valley
Khan’s Palace
Khan’s Palace is a magnificent example of architecture that was constructed in the year 1871. Ceramic tiles arranged in a sophisticated pattern cover the outside surface of the palace. The palace is famous for the rainbow wall paintings that are a feature of its interiors. These paintings were designed by the architect Mir Ubaydullo. The palace is comprised of 114 rooms in addition to 7 different courtyards. Another thing that draws people to this location is the carved stone fence that goes all the way around the royal grounds.
Narbutabey Medressa
Towards the close of the 18th century, construction began on this medressa. It is one of the largest spiritual centres in the area and is situated in the geographic heart of the region. In this enormous medressa, there are around 80 pupils enrolled. One of the most notable features of the Narbutabey Medressa is the presence of a central courtyard. Numerous locations across this city include archetypes of Muslim architecture, such as carved decorations and Quranic verses written in Arabic script on the walls of buildings.
Juma Mosque
This mosque was constructed at the very beginning of the 19th century and is widely regarded as a fantastic illustration of the Muslim architecture that can be seen across the nation. The magnificent minaret that is part of the mosque may be seen from anywhere inside the city. Paintings and other knickknacks are hung from the top of the room’s ceiling. The interior of the mosque is distinguished by around 98 columns made of hardwood and exquisitely carved in intricate designs.
Regional Museum of Fergana
The Regional Museum of Fergana is considered to be one of the nation’s oldest museums. It is home to a sizable collection of artefacts that span a variety of time periods and provide insight into the history of the area. The museum’s archaeological collection is comprised of more than 10,000 individual artefacts. The museum has an extensive collection of pottery, jewellery, and needlework from the Gurumsaray and Rishtan regions of Afghanistan. In addition, the museum has a sizable collection of artworks for visitors to peruse.
Sunday Bazaar
The Sunday Bazaar is one of the distinctive tourist destinations that can be found in the Fergana area. The market is home to a large number of different vendors that sell their wares. The sight of a large number of people dealing in animals such as cows, sheep, goats, camels, and horses is something that can only be seen in this location. Some of the other items that may be purchased in the market are bread, spices, meat, and veggies. Traditional Uzbek garb is sold by a few of the merchants as well.
Yodgorlik (Souvenir) Silk Factory
The Yodgorlik Silk Factory is the only location in all of Central Asia where you will be able to see the production of silk via the handiwork of trained craftsmen. Fabric made entirely of natural silk, in a variety of colours and designs, is famously produced in this region. Since its founding in 1972, the facility has grown to become one of the most important manufacturing facilities in the nation. Fabric of about 6,000 metres in length is manufactured every month at the mill.
Khonakhah Mosque
This magnificent mosque is a great example of the mixing of traditional Islamic design with the architectural styles of Central Asia. The sculptures and paintings in various colours of light pink, green, blue, and yellow may be seen all around the mosque. These are the primary attractions. Other points of interest inside the mosque are the sacred inscriptions as well as the imposing minaret, which can be seen from most areas of the city.
