I Zinda Samarkand contains some of the most stunning sights in Central Asia. Its huge majestic architecture and blue azure domes are a big attraction. It is not a museum city however, it has the feel of a functioning place.
People pass through the old centre in the morning on their way to work or to market.
You get the impression that people who live here no longer marvel at its beauty, just as Londoners no longer 'see' St. Pauls cathedral. Being a living city there are some sights that are just 'monuments' such as the Registan, and some that retain a religious significance beyond their outward beauty. Shah I Zinda, or tomb of the living king is an impressive example of this. It consists of a street of tombs once elaborately decorated with ceramic tiles. The name Shah I Zinda refers to the mausoleum of Qasan Ibn Abbas, a cousin of the prophet Mohammed who is said to have brought Islam to this area.