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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing

Afrasiyab Museum Samarkand
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient Sogdiana through stunning 7th-8th century murals and archaeological treasures at the Afrasiyab Museum.
"The wall paintings depict the importance of Samarkand along the silk road. Interesting History!"

💰 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 .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Afrasiyab Wall Paintings
Main exhibition hall
Ancient 7th-8th century palace murals depicting Samarkand's rich history and Silk Road connections.

Archaeological Artifacts
Ground floor exhibition
A vast collection of pottery, coins, and ceramics offering insights into Sogdiana's past.

The Actual Archaeological Site
Museum grounds
Explore the location where these incredible discoveries were made, connecting you directly to history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Afrasiyab Museum
Understand the Entrance Fee
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 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.
🏺 Pottery Collection
The ground floor boasts an impressive display of ancient pottery and ceramics.
⏳ Quick Visit Possible
Many visitors report seeing everything in 15-20 minutes.
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.
🖼️ Focus on the Murals
The 7th-8th century wall paintings are the museum's star attraction.
🏺 Pottery Collection
The ground floor boasts an impressive display of ancient pottery and ceramics.
⏳ Quick Visit Possible
Many visitors report seeing everything in 15-20 minutes.
📍 On-Site Discovery
The museum is built on the actual archaeological site, adding to its significance.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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'.
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.
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.
🎫 🏛️ 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.
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.
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.
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
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Afrasiyab Wall Paintings
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.
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.
Navigating the Museum and Visitor Experience
It's important to be aware of the pricing structure. Foreigner tickets are considerably more expensive than those for locals. 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.
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.
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