Registan Square, Samarkand: Understanding the Evolution of Islamic Architecture in Central Asia

Registan Square, an ensemble of three monumental madrasas, reveals the evolution of Islamic architecture, Timurid patronage, and the architectural history that shaped Samarkand over two centuries. Registan Square at night: Lights and shadows emphasize the depth and symmetry of the entrance portal Certain monuments become familiar long before we see them in person—Registan is one such. I had seen…