Experience Uzbekistan: A Journey Along the Silk Road
Uzbekistan is renowned as one of Central Asia’s most culturally rich destinations, featuring ancient cities, spellbinding architecture, and a compelling history. Recently, travel photographer Christopher Wilton-Steer announced a project documenting the striking beauty of the nation’s palaces and mosques as part of his exploration of the Silk Road.
Christopher’s extensive travel experiences have taken him to remote locations across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. He visited Uzbekistan during a four-month, 40,000km overland journey from London to Beijing, crossing 15 countries for a photography project. This project aims to share the wonders of the Silk Road with broader audiences, celebrate diverse cultural expressions, and showcase how historical practices, rituals, and customs thrive today. Moreover, it reveals the connections between cultures that might initially appear very different.
Also known as the Silk Route, this ancient trade route linked China to parts of Europe and Africa and carried goods through Rome. Uzbekistan was at the heart of the route, benefiting immensely from it. Extravagant architectural gems sprouted during the Timurid dynasty, from the 1400s to the 1600s, including colorful mausoleums, monuments, palaces, mosques, domes, and bazaars, many of which Christopher managed to document.
“I was particularly interested in the way the Timurids, and in some cases, those before them, covered their monuments entirely in geometric tile work. These shapes resemble QR codes but are actually forms of Kufic calligraphy that repeat divine words. Despite being several hundred years old, they look remarkably modern, as though they were designed yesterday,” Christopher said.
The captivating photos from his journey will contribute to an exhibition about the Silk Road organized in partnership with the Aga Khan Foundation. Discover more of Christopher’s work on his official website and explore his stunning photography on Instagram.
