Travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield is joined by author Bradley Mayhew to explore Samarkand, the ancient Uzbek city and major hub on the Silk Roads. Together, they trace more than two millennia of history, from its ancient origins in the seventh century BC through conquest by Alexander the Great, destruction by Genghis Khan, prominence under Timur and later incorporation into the Soviet Union. Along the way, they meet major historical figures, try the local cuisine and share top advice for visitors to the city today.

History’s Greatest Cities is produced by HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Listen to our other podcasts History’s Greatest Conspiracy Theories, History’s Greatest Scandals, History’s Greatest Battles, HistoryExtra Long Reads and the HistoryExtra podcast at ⁠historyextra.com/podcast⁠.

For more fascinating stories from the past head to HistoryExtra.com.

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