Location and Accessibility

Istravshan, formerly known as Uroteppa, is one of Central Asia’s most ancient towns, with a history spanning over 2,500 years. Located 73 kilometers from Khujand, it is easily accessible via a well-paved road that connects to the rest of the region.

Historical Significance

Istravshan has long been an important trade and craft center. The town, once known as Kurukada by the Persians and Kurushkada by the Sogdians, celebrates its rich history, with scholars identifying it as the ancient Cyropol or Kireschata mentioned by Ptolemy. Its strategic location made it a key commercial hub connecting various trade routes leading to Khujand, Bukhara, Samarqand, and the Ferghana Valley.

In the 6th century B.C., the town was fortified with three layers of walls, including a citadel surrounded by a 6,000-meter-long wall. It became famous for its skilled craftsmen and thriving trade. Between the 1st and 2nd centuries B.C. and A.D., Istravshan was part of Ustrushana, an independent region with its capital at Bundjikat. The town played a vital role in regional trade and commerce.

During the Arab rule in 822, Istravshan flourished as a significant cultural and commercial center, particularly known for its advancements in Islamic architecture. However, the town’s development was disrupted by the invasion of Genghis Khan’s forces in the 13th century, which resulted in widespread destruction, including the collapse of settlements, the ruin of irrigation systems, and a loss of life.

By the end of the 14th century, under the Timurid Empire, Istravshan (then known as Ura-Tyube) experienced a resurgence as a growing urban center. The city’s residential areas expanded, and infrastructure improvements, including irrigation systems, wells, and recreation areas, were introduced.

Architectural and Cultural Heritage

In the 16th century, the rise of the Sheibanid Dynasty in Bukhara caused a decline in Istravshan’s regional importance, but the town saw some restoration in the 18th century. During this time, the citadel was strengthened, and new fortifications were built to withstand frequent attacks from nomadic Turkic-Mongolian tribes.

By the late 19th century, Istravshan was home to 68 mosques, 16 caravanserais, 7 bathhouses, and bustling markets for goods ranging from livestock to cotton. The town also preserved several significant historical monuments. One of the most notable is the Hazratishoh Mausoleum, a double-domed structure from the 18th century, which local tradition claims is the burial site of Kusama ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad.

Another important site is the Abdulatif Sultan Mosque-Madrassah, also known as Kok-Gumbaz due to its distinctive blue dome. Built in the 16th century under Abdulatif, the son of the renowned astronomer Ulugbek, it features a large square room with deep alcoves and a sculpted alabaster arch above the prayer niche (mehrob). Legend has it that Abdulatif, after a quarrel with his father, worked for a peasant digging an irrigation canal. His father later took the money Abdulatif earned and used it to fund the construction of the madrassah.

The town’s bathhouses (hammams) were not only functional but also served a spiritual purpose, as they were often used for purification rituals before prayer. These bathhouses were an integral part of Istravshan’s cultural life, with rooms for relaxing, drinking tea, or playing chess, and have remained intact in some quarters, such as Korgardon and Darvozai Bolo.

Folk Art and Craftsmanship

Istravshan is also known for its vibrant craft tradition. The town has long been a center for folk artisans, and the various districts specialize in different crafts such as weaving, pottery, blacksmithing, and embroidery. The local market is a great place to witness the creative process, where visitors can find everything from decorative textiles and ceramics to jewelry and architectural décor. The rich, diverse art forms in Istravshan have deep roots in ancient traditions, showcasing the town’s inexhaustible creative spirit.

Natural Attractions and Recreation

Outside of its historical and cultural landmarks, Istravshan also offers natural beauty, including the Kattasay Reservoir, located 6 kilometers from the town. This man-made reservoir, built in 1964, is a popular recreational spot for locals. The dam stands 60 meters tall, stretches 800 meters in length, and has a maximum depth of 43 meters, with a capacity of 55 million cubic meters. The area around the reservoir includes the Uroteppa Sanitarium and several recreational zones, making it an ideal location for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Visitors can reach the Kattasay Reservoir by public transport or taxi from Istravshan.