Ancient Penjikent
Панҷакенти қадим
The ruins of a Sogdian ancient city from the 5th to 8th centuries, known as the 'Pompeii of Central Asia', with many fine murals unearthed.
Located on a terrace southeast of modern Penjikent, this was an important Sogdian city from the 5th to the 8th centuries. After the Arab conquest in the 8th century it was gradually abandoned, and it has come to be known as the 'Pompeii of Central Asia'. The site has adobe foundation walls of a citadel, temples, palaces and residential quarters. The narrative murals unearthed here are mostly held in the Hermitage in St. Petersburg and in the local Rudaki Museum. The site offers little shade and limited interpretation, so it is better to visit the museum first. Tickets cost somoni, and in summer it is best to avoid midday.
Opening hours
About 08:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Panjakent Central Bazaar
- Rudaki Museum of History
- Sarazm
- Mausoleum of Muhammad Bashoro
- Marguzor Seven Lakes (Haft Kul)
- Rudaki Mausoleum
- Artuch Alpine Camp
- Bolshoe Allo Lake