Margilan

General information

Margilan is a city famous for its silk since ancient times. It is located in the Fergana Valley, 9 km away from Fergana city. In 2007 the city celebrated its 2000th anniversary.

There are many versions and legends associated with the emergence of the city name. One of them tells that when Alexander the Great arrived here, the locals met him with bread and chicken. When asked about the name of the dish, those who met him responded with “Murginon”.

How to get there

Modern and comfortable daily train departs from Tashkent to Margilan in the mornings and in the evenings. In addition, you can take a taxi to Margilan from nearby and remote cities. In particular, in the capital cars leave from the Kuilyuk bazaar. The road takes about 6 hours. However, all inconveniences of the trip are justified by the beautiful views of the mountain pass.

Climate

The best season to go to Margilan is spring or summer, so you will have enough time to enjoy all the beauty of this area of the Fergana Valley. In summer, the temperature rises up to C30+, but often even higher. Thus, the tourists who are not used to the heat should be more careful.

What to see

The following architectural monuments of the city can be considered as the most famous:

  • Pir Siddiq Complex (dates back to the 18th century, local people often call it Kaptarlik or “Golubiniy”). The legend associated with this complex says that the holy Pir, escaping from enemies, was forced to hide in a cave. A little later, numerous pigeons inhabiting the cave made many nests, thus immersing the entrance. The pursuers did not realize that the birds could safely worm their nests in the presence of a man, and passed by the cave.
  • Mausoleum of Khoja Magiz is one of the most unusual in its architecture buildings from all that were preserved in Central Asia in general and in Margilan in particular. It refers to the XVIII century.
  • Chakra, Toron Bazaar and Khanakokh Mosques.
  • Madrassah (religious school) of Said Ahmad-Khodja is a vivid example of the mixture of Eastern and European architecture. This building was constructed in the XIX century.
  • Memorial complex of Burhaniddin Al-Margilani.

Things to do

The most significant place among all that you need to visit upon arrival in the city is, of course, the Yodgorlik Silk Factory.

It is known that in ancient times there was a fierce competition between China and Margilan regarding the art of making silk. Although by the quality the products of rivals equaled one another, Chinese and Margilan silk are cardinally different in appearance.

If in the process of work the Chinese devote a lot of time to the implementation of the picture, achieving maximum clarity and precision of images, the Margilans used simpler, but, nevertheless, the original way.

For dyeing the khan-atlas (Margilan silk), they use the following technology: the threads of silk are twisted into a wisp and put into the dye. After some time, the threads are taken out. Naturally, the coloring is uneven. It is almost impossible to create a clear drawing from such threads. However, it is quite possible to make the famous Margilan abstraction, which is unique by the nature.  So, dear tourists, everything of genius is simple!

What to buy

Silk and semi-silk fabrics can be purchased at the city bazaar. They can also be bought at the aforementioned silk factory.

In addition, finished products made of silk and cotton fabrics are sold here.

Where to stay

Unfortunately, the choice of hotels in the city is not too wide, for there are only few. The average cost of the room is $50. Budget tourists are advised to look for accommodation in the private sector. By the way, such rent will be much cheaper.

Where and what to eat

What’s so special about eating in Margilan? First of all, it’s certainly a pilaw. It is served here with greens, vegetables and quail eggs.

Mastava (rice soup with vegetables) is served here cooked on bone broth with meatballs. In addition, it is profusely supplemented by fresh tomatoes.

Useful contacts

24/7 Help Desk for Tourists: 8 371 200-00-88 or +998 71 200-00-88

Margilan railway station: +998 73 237-57-28

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