Thread of history

Six eras, one continuous practice of making

This thread does not claim to contain the country’s full history. It shows how cities, exchanges of knowledge, and craft schools shaped the cultural landscape of Uzbekistan today.

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Before the 8th century

Ancient oases

Samarkand, Bukhara, and settlements along the rivers grew where water turned steppe into a setting for trade and urban life. Their early history was shaped by encounters among languages, beliefs, and craft knowledge.

Geography: Sogdia and ancient Bactria
Material language: Clay, metal, weaving

Sources and editorial approach

Silk Atlas editors wrote these texts in their own words using UNESCO materials. This is an introductory route, not an academic periodisation.

UNESCO: Samarkand — Crossroad of Cultures Checked: 2026-09-03
UNESCO: Historic Centre of Bukhara Checked: 2026-09-03
UNESCO: Itchan Kala Checked: 2026-09-03
UNESCO: Margilan atlas and adras traditions Checked: 2026-09-03