Ceramic craftsmanship in Rishton, the silk tradition in Margilan, the architectural history of Kokand and foothill landscapes give Ferghana Province a range of distinctive highlights. The Fergana region lies in the south of the Fergana Valley, between the Pamir-Alai and Tian Shan mountain systems. When planning your trip, it is worth deciding first whether architecture, crafts, landscapes or regional cuisine should be your main focus.
Kokand and Kuva: Architectural History and Archaeology
Two historic buildings with distinct dates and features are the main highlights in Kokand. The Palace of Khudoyar Khan was built in 1871 as the seventh khan's palace. The Jameh Mosque dates from 1819 to 1822. Its veranda is surrounded by 98 wooden columns, and it also has a minaret. The mosque and palace thus offer different architectural points of reference for exploring Kokand's history.
In Kuva, the focus turns further back in time. Extensive excavations uncovered the ancient settlement of Kubo, with numerous monuments, residential quarters and valuable finds. Buddhist figures and Buddha statues were also found at the site. Kuva adds its own archaeological focus to the architectural history of the cities.
Ceramics in Rishton, Silk Craftsmanship in Margilan
Rishton is known as a city of master craftspeople and one of Central Asia's largest centers for producing distinctive glazed ceramics. At the craft center in Rishton District, work is carried out according to the traditional master-apprentice principle. The combination of ceramic production and the passing on of craft knowledge makes the town a highlight for travelers interested in this craft.
In Margilan, the craft center showcases different aspects of textile work. Its facilities include weaving workshops, an exhibition of finished products, a platform and a studio. Visitors can watch fabric being sewn and dyed. The international silk festival “Atlas Bayrami” is also held annually in Margilan. Those interested in literature can find exhibits on the life and work of poet and writer Erkin Vohidov at the Erkin Vohidov Memorial Museum.
Another architectural point of interest in Margilan is the Pir-Siddiq Complex. It includes a mausoleum, a mosque, a minaret and several dovecotes. The city thus brings together textile craft traditions, an annual festival, literature and architecture as distinct themes.
Foothill Landscapes and Regional Cuisine
The landscapes also have their own appeal. Shakhimardan is bordered on both sides by the mountain rivers Ak-Su and Kok-Su, which merge to form the Shakhimardan-Sai River. Vuadil Valley offers foothill scenery, fertile orchards and clear air. The Chimghan health resort area lies in the foothills of the Fergana region and is known for its natural healing springs.
The Dilkusho farmstead in the Fergana region has a twin windmill that has preserved its antique style as a hydraulic engineering monument. It adds an example of regional architectural and engineering history to the landscape highlights. Kokand plov stands out among the local dishes for its precisely specified ingredients: it is prepared exclusively with Devzira rice, garlic and hot pepper; no sweet ingredients are added.
Choosing Hotels to Match Your Travel Interests
When looking for hotels, it helps to decide what interests you most: Kokand is known for the historic buildings mentioned above, Rishton for ceramics, and Margilan for silk craftsmanship, its festival and its museum. Then compare the location of available hotels with the places you plan to include in your trip.
Discover more destinations: Kokand, Fergana, Bukhara Province, Andijan Province, Qashqadaryo Province, Surxondaryo Province, Republic of Karakalpakstan, Navoiy Province.
Return to the main travel overview: Uzbekistan.
