“Andijon is probably the country’s most authentic Uzbek city,” states Lonely Planet. This blog series will examine several tourism destinations around this lovely city. This week, we begin with the heart of Andijan: Eski Sahar/ the Old City/ Старый Город
O’zbegim Trade Center
It is the main mall in Andijan, divided up by four floors. There is a super market, Makro, and a sourvenir shop (don’t buy souvenirs from there) on the first floor. The second floor is entirely shops. There is an amusement park for children on the third floor. If you like arcade games, I recommend checking it out. The fourth floor is an American style food court. If you want fast food, Les Ailes is the best. For a breath-taking view of Eski Sahar, I recommend eating on the balcony of Family. You should order the chicken sote, cheese pide or the kebob.
Babur’s House (Babur Literary Museum)
When Andijan’s hometown hero, Zahiruddin Babur, lived in town, he lived here. Babur was descended from the Uzbek hero, Timur, and founded the Mughal Empire in India. The museum includes lovely artwork about Babur’s life and a transcript of his autobiography, Baburnameh. I recommend going with a Russian speaker because there is limited English spoken. There will be construction until summer 2019. It besides “Dehqon markaziy bozor” and across the street from the Jome Mosque and Medressa. Admission is 5,000 so’m.
Navoi Park
Named after the famed Uzbek writer Alisher Navoi, this park is located by the roundabout and south of O’zbegim. During the summer months, there are amusement park rides, a stadium and a place to eat ice cream. In the fall and winter, you will feel like a third wheel since the park is a popular dating spot with local couples, attempting to be discreet.
Weeping Mother Statue | Xotira Maydoni
Directly south of O’zbegim and north of the roundabout, this somber monument to lives lost during World War II stands. The statue depicts a mother mourning. Surrounding her, flowers and plaques memorialize Andijan’s fallen. Panels behind her list out the people of Andijan who perished during the world.
Jome Mosque & Medressa
The highlight of Eski Shahar, the mosque and medressa are beautiful. I love walking around there. Built in the 19th century, this complex survived the 1902 earthquake. It operates 9 am to 4 pm Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is 5,000 so'm. While you can go inside, I recommend walking or biking around the square. The wood-working is incredible. At night, the square is well-lit. Next door, there is a regional history museum.
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