Samarkand, Uzbekistan - Recen Samarkand, an ancient city in Uzbekistan with a history spanning thousands of years, is captivating visitors from all over the world with its unique architectural style and rich cultural heritage. As a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, this treasure of Central Asian civilization is at the heart of the ancient Silk Road and stands as a testament to the Road's vibrant history. Beneath its iconic blue domes lies the final resting place of Amir Temur, the formidable "Iron King." In the 14th century, under Temur's rule, Samarkand reached its peak. The once undefeated ruler fought and expanded his territory all his life, and died on his way to China. Timur once aspired to build one of the most spectacular cities in the world -- and he succeeded. The dome covered with blue tiles can be seen all over the city even today. The color symbolizes the sky, power and peace. Registan Square, along with the surrounding Madrasah complex built by Temur's descendants, remains a central landmark. These architectural masterpieces, transcending their religious origins, have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage list since 2001. Throughout the year, Samarkand draws a steady stream of tourists and newlyweds. Romantic tales continue to unfold in modern times, one of the most touching being that of a Dutch family whose connection to Uzbekistan began in the historic city of Khiva. As their children have grown, the family cherishes their memories of Uzbekistan, keeping the country's allure alive. To harness its cultural heritage as a tourism asset, Uzbekistan has established the Silk Road University in Samarkand, focusing on tourism as a key discipline. The university was built in 2018 at the suggestion of Uzbek President Mirziyoyev at the SCO summit in Qingdao. The degree programs cover historical and cultural archaeology, cultural heritage study, translation, foreign languages and literature. All courses are taught in English, with Chinese and Russian as compulsory courses. In recent years, Uzbekistan has established a visa-free system with more than 90 countries, including China. The Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024 report shows that Uzbekistan has risen from 94th in 2019 to 78th in the overall ranking, an increase of 7.8 percent, becoming the fastest-growing economy in the index in the past five years. Shotlist: Samarkand, Uzbekistan - Recent: 1. Tourists at Tamerlan Bibi-Khanim mosque, Shakhi-Zinda courtyard; 2. Aerial shot of Amir Temur statue; 3. Various of Tamerlan Bibi-Khanim, tour guide working, colored patterns, artistic design on architecture; tourists; 4. Various of dome of mosque, tourists; 5. Various of tourists, bride having photo taken with friends at plaza; cameraman; 6. Interior, mosque; 7. Newly-wed couple in interview; 8. SOUNDBITE (Uzbek, dubbed in English) Bridegroom (name not given): "My home is nearby. Of course I want to take my most important wedding photos here."; 9. SOUNDBITE (English) Indian tourist (name not given): "They have so much deep-rooted history, culture and color. I'm an architect, so this is all endlessly fascinating for me."; 10. Various of Dutch families sharing their story with Uzbek cities, laughing; 11. SOUNDBITE (English) Dutch tourist (name not given): "(In Khiva) There was this place where you can get water from a deep well. So we asked what is this? And the locals say it is a well of fertility. And then a lady asked: 'Do you want to drink it?' My wife said 'Yes, I would like to!' And one month later she was pregnant. This is our daughter, her name is Khiva." UPSOUND (English) Khiva (full name not given), Dutch tourist: "Hello!"; 12. Dutch tourists; 13. Ancient castle, tourists; 14. Various of Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage campus, school badge; 15. SOUNDBITE (Chinese) Zou Tongqian, Vice President, Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage (ending with shot 16): "The entire university is mainly for training talents for the tourism and cutural industries. It started to recruit students right after its foundation in 2018 and offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral degrees."; 16. Various of Zou introducing exhibits to visitor, fabric art pieces on display; 17. Students having group photo taken; 18. SOUNDBITE (Chinese) Xie Shuang, student (partially overlaid with shot 19): "We are studying museology. If there's a chance, we would love to do more research and discoveries in this country."; [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE] 19. Students entering campus building; [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE] 20. Student sitting on bench; 21. SOUNDBITE (Chinese) Chen Ruisi, student (starting with shot 20): "I feel a strong vibe of cultural exchange. Everyone comes from different countries and comes to one class."; 22. Students; FILE: Samarkand, Uzbekistan - Date Unknown 23. Aerial shots of major tourist attractions, historical sites of Samarkand, train; Samarkand, Uzbekistan - Recent