At present, Ming Urik fortress represents a unique museum and an outstanding archaeological monument, protected by the state. Once upon a time, a densely populated city flourished here with its culture, architecture, city life and crafts. There was a fortress-citadel, which served as the main defense structure, as well as the city of Shakhristan with many buildings. Some of them have survived to the present day in the form of ruins, and thanks to scientists, researchers were able to identify their purpose. As it turned out, one of the buildings once served as a two-story castle of one of the notable rulers, and the other was the altar-elevated place in which rituals were held. According to Arab historians, the city was richly decorated with a palace, and a sacred fire always burnt here - an important symbol of Zoroastrianism. Up to the tenth century, the maintenance of the eternal fire in the temples was practiced by the Mobeds, until Zoroastrianism was replaced by Islam.
On the territory of the city, many artefacts have been found, including items of metalworking, pottery and ceramics. In particular, terracotta figurines, coins of own production, household items, various figures, toys and much more.
Today, Ming Urik settlement, a territory of 35 hectares, is located in Tashkent near the Northern Railway Station, near the Salar Canal. Its name comes from a large garden of apricot trees, that grew on its territory, and translates as "one thousand apricots" ("ming" - a thousand, "urik" - apricot, apricot). On the territory of the once prosperous hill-fort there is now a museum with many objects that perfectly convey the history and life of Uzbek ancestors. Thematic installations are set here too. With their help, visitors and tourists learn more about the culture of the ancient city, which is rightfully considered the oldest center of the modern city of Tashkent.
