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Afrasiyab Museum Samarkand

4
·733 reviews·Samarqand, Uzbekistan

Discover ancient Sogdiana through stunning 7th-8th century murals and archaeological treasures at the Afrasiyab Museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
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色鮮やかなフレスコ画

Afrasiyab Museum Samarkand

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover ancient Sogdiana through stunning 7th-8th century murals and archaeological treasures at the Afrasiyab Museum.

4
(733 reviews)

"The wall paintings depict the importance of Samarkand along the silk road. Interesting History!"

Vertical photo
TIP

💰 Foreigner Ticket Price

Be aware of the higher entry fee for foreigners; some find it steep for the duration .

🖼️ Focus on the Murals

The 7th-8th century wall paintings are the museum's star attraction .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Afrasiyab Wall Paintings

Afrasiyab Wall Paintings

Main exhibition hall

Ancient 7th-8th century palace murals depicting Samarkand's rich history and Silk Road connections.

Archaeological Artifacts

Archaeological Artifacts

Ground floor exhibition

A vast collection of pottery, coins, and ceramics offering insights into Sogdiana's past.

The Actual Archaeological Site

The Actual Archaeological Site

Museum grounds

Explore the location where these incredible discoveries were made, connecting you directly to history.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Afrasiyab Museum

While the museum is open on Sundays,Reddit consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid larger crowds. The exhibits are relatively compact, so a few hours is usually sufficient, but planning your visit around peak tourist times can enhance your experience.

Understand the Entrance Fee

Foreigner ticket prices are significantly higher than local rates.Reddit While some find the museum worth the cost for its historical artifacts and unique murals, others feel it's overpriced for the time it takes to see everything. Weigh the historical significance against the expense.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Still open, less rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

They weren’t lying when they said Samarkand is an open air Museum 🇺🇿#traveltiktok #travel #muslimtiktok #mosque #islam #samarkand #uzbekistan #holiday #museum
@artbyfxts
4.8K likes • 59K views

💰 Foreigner Ticket Price

Be aware of the higher entry fee for foreigners; some find it steep for the duration.Reddit

🖼️ Focus on the Murals

The 7th-8th century wall paintings are the museum's star attraction.Instagram

#fentysuperbrandday #LanguageLearning #تاجیکستان🇹🇯 #тоҷикистон #самарканд🇹🇯 #бухоро🇹🇯 #Samarqand #Bukhara #tajpower #تاجیک #uzbakiston🇹🇯 #таджикистан🇹🇯 #тоҷикон @KARA PRANK @Aryans of world @TARIHI_TOjIKON🇹🇯🇮🇷🇦🇫🟩⬜⬛ @Yusuf_gulrezi 🇹🇯🙏 @General @Sogdiana
@tajpower_tjk
2K likes • 168.6K views
. Memory of Samarkand Amir Temur Mausoleum * Ulugh Beg Observatory Afrasiyab Museum Shah-i-Zinda * Bibi-Khanym Madrasa * Registan * * Magnificent architecture Shah-I-Zinda is a necropolis along a narrow street. There are a total of 13 buildings where one outdoes the others. . . #tlasia #tlpicks #frommers #cnntravel #uzbekistan #uzbekistantrip #traveluzbekistan #samarkand #samarqand #architecture...
joetravellersg
9 likes • 243 views

🏺 Pottery Collection

The ground floor boasts an impressive display of ancient pottery and ceramics.Reddit

⏳ Quick Visit Possible

Many visitors report seeing everything in 15-20 minutes.Reddit

Culture News: A tour of the history of Sogdiana in the Afrasiyab Museum in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
michaelclaytonart
9 likes • 111 views

Tips

from all over the internet

💰 Foreigner Ticket Price

Be aware of the higher entry fee for foreigners; some find it steep for the duration.Reddit

🖼️ Focus on the Murals

The 7th-8th century wall paintings are the museum's star attraction.Instagram

🏺 Pottery Collection

The ground floor boasts an impressive display of ancient pottery and ceramics.Reddit

⏳ Quick Visit Possible

Many visitors report seeing everything in 15-20 minutes.Reddit

📍 On-Site Discovery

The museum is built on the actual archaeological site, adding to its significance.

What Travellers Say

4
(733 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Afrasiyab Museum offers a glimpse into Samarkand's ancient past with its remarkable 7th-8th century wall paintings and archaeological finds. While some visitors find the foreigner ticket price high for the short duration of the visit, others appreciate the historical significance and unique artistry. It's a compact site, best suited for those with a specific interest in Sogdian history and art.

"The museum is located in the actual archaeological site where they found the wall paintings and other artifacts The wall paintings depicts the importance of Samarkand along the silk road Interesting History"

Jason L

"We tried going on a Sunday as we only had one day there, and they were open!

Great history with lots of recovered pottery on both floors with an amazing mosaic in an exhibition near the front entrance."

John Hernandez

"Another tourist trap. They charge 80,000 for foreigners, more than twice the normal price. The museum is ok, it's mostly pottery on the first floor. It takes about 15-20 minutes to see everything, hence the overpriced entry fee. I don't recommend."

Danny Quesnel

What People Like

Remarkable wall paintings
Ancient artifacts
Historical significance

What People Dislike

High foreigner ticket price
Short visit duration

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located on the northern outskirts of Samarkand. You can reach it by taxi or local bus. Many visitors combine a visit with other Samarkand attractions like Shah-i-Zinda.TikTok

Yes, it's generally accessible by road. Taxis are readily available in Samarkand and can take you directly to the museum.

It's a considerable distance to walk from Registan Square, so taking a taxi or bus is recommended for most visitors.

The museum is typically open daily, including Sundays.Reddit It's advisable to check the most current hours before your visit, as they can sometimes vary.

There is usually parking available at the museum, especially for taxis and private vehicles.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for foreigners is significantly higher than for locals, which some visitors find to be a 'tourist trap'.Reddit It's recommended to confirm the current prices upon arrival.

Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not widely available. The primary price difference is between local and foreign visitors.Reddit

Online ticket purchasing is not commonly mentioned. It's best to purchase tickets directly at the museum's entrance.

There isn't a widely advertised city pass that includes the Afrasiyab Museum. Tickets are typically purchased individually.

Many visitors find that the museum can be seen in about 15-20 minutes due to its size.Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The museum's highlight is the 7th-8th century palace wall paintings, alongside a significant collection of pottery, coins, and other archaeological finds from the ancient city of Afrasiyab.Instagram

While children might not spend a long time here, the visual nature of the murals and artifacts can be educational. It's a quick visit, so it won't tire them out.

Guided tours are not always readily available. It's advisable to check at the entrance or consider hiring a local guide in Samarkand if you desire a more in-depth explanation.

The museum is located on the site of ancient Afrasiyab, the original settlement of Samarkand. It showcases artifacts that reveal the city's importance along the Silk Road and its cultural influences.Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask museum staff before taking pictures, especially of the delicate wall paintings.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules can be inconsistent. It's always a good idea to look for signs or ask staff before taking pictures, particularly of the ancient murals.TikTok

The vibrant 7th-8th century wall paintings are the most photogenic elements. The exterior grounds also offer views of the archaeological site.

Drone usage is generally restricted in historical and cultural sites in Uzbekistan. It's best to avoid bringing drones to avoid potential issues.

A camera with good low-light performance is helpful for the interior exhibits. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the murals.

Similar to the murals, photography of artifacts may be restricted. Always confirm with museum personnel.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Afrasiyab Museum offers a quick and visually engaging stop for families. The vibrant wall paintings can capture children's attention, offering a colorful introduction to ancient history.TikTok While the museum is small and can be seen quickly, it's a good way to break up a day of sightseeing without overwhelming younger visitors. The pottery and artifact displays on the ground floor also provide tangible examples of the past. Consider it a brief educational detour rather than a full-day activity.

🏛️ History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history and ancient art, the Afrasiyab Museum is a must-visit. The 7th-8th century wall paintings are a rare and invaluable window into the Sogdian civilization and the Silk Road era.Instagram The museum's location on the original archaeological site adds a profound sense of place. You'll find a wealth of information about Samarkand's ancient past, from its diplomatic ties to its artistic influences.Reddit Be prepared for the foreigner ticket price, but the historical and artistic merit of the exhibits is undeniable.

💰 Budget Travelers

While the foreigner ticket price for the Afrasiyab Museum is higher than some other attractions, many travelers find it to be a relatively quick visit, potentially making it a more manageable expense within a budget.Reddit If you're prioritizing the most iconic Samarkand sights, you might consider if the cost aligns with your budget for a 15-20 minute experience.Reddit However, for those deeply interested in ancient history, the unique murals offer significant value.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of the Afrasiyab Wall Paintings

The undisputed highlight of the Afrasiyab Museum is its collection of 7th-8th century wall paintings. These remarkably preserved murals were discovered on the site of ancient Afrasiyab, the original settlement of Samarkand. They offer a vivid glimpse into the political, cultural, and daily life of the Sogdian civilization during a pivotal period of the Silk Road. The paintings depict scenes of embassies, royal courts, hunting, and festivals, showcasing influences from various cultures, including Chinese and Indian art, while retaining their distinct Zoroastrian character.Reddit The artistry and detail are astounding, making them a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history and art.Instagram

These murals are not just beautiful; they are invaluable historical documents. They provide crucial insights into the diplomatic relations and trade networks that Samarkand was a part of. The discovery and preservation of these paintings are a testament to the archaeological efforts that have brought the ancient city of Afrasiyab back to life. Visitors often express awe at the vibrancy and complexity of these ancient artworks, which are a rare surviving example of Sogdian painting.Reddit

While the paintings are the main draw, the museum also houses a substantial collection of pottery, coins, and other artifacts excavated from the Afrasiyab settlement. These items further illuminate the history of Samarkand from its earliest days, offering a tangible connection to the people who lived and traded there centuries ago. The museum's location directly on the archaeological site adds an extra layer of immersion to the visitor experience.Reddit

Navigating the Museum and Visitor Experience

The Afrasiyab Museum is relatively compact, with much of its collection housed on the ground floor and in the main exhibition hall. Many visitors report that the entire museum can be explored in 15-20 minutes.Reddit This brevity, combined with a higher entrance fee for foreigners, has led some to describe it as a 'tourist trap'.Reddit However, for those with a keen interest in history and art, the unique wall paintings and the archaeological context make it a worthwhile stop.

It's important to be aware of the pricing structure. Foreigner tickets are considerably more expensive than those for locals.Reddit This is a common practice in many historical sites across Uzbekistan, but it's something to factor into your budget. Despite the cost, the historical significance of the site and the rarity of the preserved murals are often cited as reasons to visit.Reddit

When planning your visit, consider that the museum is located on the actual archaeological site of ancient Afrasiyab. This provides a unique opportunity to see where these significant discoveries were made. While the museum itself might be small, its historical weight is immense, offering a deep dive into the ancient roots of Samarkand.Reddit

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