Afrasiab Museum of Samarkand 🇺🇿

Located in the northeastern part of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, the Afrasiab Museum sits at the edge of one of the world's largest archaeological sites—an ancient city destroyed by the Mongols in the early 13th century. Named after the mythical king and hero of Turan, this fascinating museum offers you a captivating window into the founding and rich history of Samarkand and the surrounding region. Opened in 1970 for the city’s 2500th anniversary, the building was designed by Soviet-Armenian architect Bagdasar Arzumanyan.

Inside, you can explore five thematic rooms containing over 22,000 unique exhibits gathered from excavations at Afrasiyab and Samarkand. As you wander through the galleries, you will discover ancient manuscripts, books, ceramics, coins, statues, ossuaries, and sharp weaponry like swords and arrows. You will also view the museum's standout treasure: the remarkably preserved 7th-to-8th-century Afrasiab palace murals from the Ikhshid Dynasty.

Additionally, you can step inside the Azerbaijani Pavilion, added in December 2015, which showcases traditional dress like hats and kalaghai, books, and insights into carpet weaving traditions. Visit to immerse yourself in thousands of years of Central Asian history on a truly monumental historical site.

What to see at Afrasiab Museum of Samarkand

• Ancient Afrasiab palace murals from the Ikhshid Dynasty of the 7th-8th centuries
• Over 22,000 unique artifacts including swords, arrows, coins, ceramics, and ossuaries
• Five thematic rooms detailing the historical periods of the Afrasiyab fort
• The Azerbaijani Pavilion featuring national dress, kalaghai, and carpet weaving traditions

Visiting tips

Be sure to explore all five thematic rooms to see how artifacts trace the settlement of the ancient fort.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Afrasiab Museum of Samarkand is easy to reach on Samarkand’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Bibi-Khanym Mosque and Afrasiyab. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Samarkand travel guide.