Uzbekistan is a landlocked country in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Turkmenistan. Its capital and largest city is Tashkent.

Uzbekistan has a rich and ancient history, once forming a key part of the Silk Road—the historic trade route connecting the East and West. The country is home to several famous cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, known for their stunning Islamic architecture, intricate tilework, and historical monuments.

The culture of Uzbekistan blends Turkic, Persian, Russian, and Islamic influences. The Uzbek language is the official language, and Islam is the predominant religion. Traditional Uzbek cuisine includes dishes like plov (a rice and meat dish), lagman (noodle soup), and samsa (meat-filled pastries).