Siyob Bazaar

Siyob Bazaar is a large market near Bibi Khanum Mosque featuring seven covered pavilions with triple-arched entrances decorated in blue majolica tiles. The complex contains numerous shopping arcades offering fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, and regional food specialties throughout the day.

The name comes from the Siyob River, which means 'black water' in Persian and has marked an important trading location since medieval times. The site developed into a major market that shaped economic activity in this region for centuries.

Local bakers produce different varieties of non bread, each marked with distinctive patterns created using traditional hand tools. These baking techniques have been passed down through generations in Samarkand and continue to shape the appearance and taste of the bread sold here.

The market sits at the intersection of Tashkentskaya and Shakhi Zinda streets and is open for shopping daily. Visitors should expect busy corridors and crowds, especially during morning and late morning hours when the selection is freshest.

The market is known for nabot, a crystal-like sugar formed from grape juice and spices that grows on suspended threads over several days. This handcrafted process creates delicate sugar strands that visitors can purchase directly from vendors as treats or souvenirs.

Location: Samarkand

GPS coordinates: 39.66189,66.97992

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:00