Uzbekistan has officially secured its status as the leading custodian of Islamic heritage in the Asian region. The ASIA Records organization has recognized the republic as the country with the highest number of historic Islamic cities included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, Yuz.uz reports.

The ceremonial presentation of the certificate took place in Kuala Lumpur with the participation of representatives from Uzbekistan’s Tourism Committee and Embassy. The cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, and Shakhrisabz were awarded this high status.

The main value of these cities lies in the comprehensive preservation of their historical environment. Protection extends not only to individual monuments but also to the entire architectural fabric of these ancient centers. This confirms the country’s leadership in preserving the Islamic civilization that flourished along the Great Silk Road.

Today, Uzbekistan remains a key center for cultural and pilgrimage tourism. In addition to UNESCO-listed sites, pilgrims are drawn to sacred landmarks in Tashkent, Termez, and Samarkand, including the Hast-Imam complex and the mausoleum of Imam al-Bukhari.

International recognition at the ASIA Records level underscores the exceptional importance of Uzbekistan’s heritage sites for all of humanity and highlights the country’s openness to researchers and travelers.

ORIENT