Penjikent which means ‘five villages’ in Persian was once a thriving Sogdian city located at the gateway to the Zerafshan Valley in Tajikistan. Spread along the banks of the Zeravshan River, the modern-day city is known for its ancient archaeological settlement, a vibrant central marketplace and its link with the illustrious Tajik poet, Rudaki, also known as the Adam of Poets.
Dating back to the 5th-century, the fortified city of Penjikent was once one of the most prominent arts and cultural centers in the Sogdian Empire and an important landmark along the Great Silk Road. In fact, it was dubbed the Pompeii of Central Asia and, as the easternmost town of Sogdiana, it was revered for its enviable location along a popular trading route between Samarkand and the Kukhistan Mountains.
During its heyday, ancient Penjikent (known by locals as ‘Kaynar’ after a nearby spring), consisted of a palace, two temples, several bustling markets, and some interesting shrines. Alas, the old Penjikent in all its medieval glory was destroyed during an 8th-century battle with the Arabs near Mugh Hill castle and the ruins remained unexcavated until 1946. Even today, less than half of the age-old settlement has been uncovered.
Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient town with its medieval citadel and palace, craftsman workshops, fire worshipper’s church, necropolis, and historic homes with their fascinating wall frescoes. Archaeological digs have uncovered finds such as royal coins and religious figurines made out of wood and clay.
Famous landmarks in modern-day Penjikent include the Rudaki Museum (the Republican History and Regional Study Museum), the Olim Dodhko Mosque and Medressah, the Mazor-i Sharif mausoleum, the Kamoli Khujandi Park with its theme park, and the Kainar Ato Spring that acts as Penjikent’s main water supply.
Trace the history of Rudaki, the famous Tajik poet, while you are in Penjikent. The town of Rudak located nearby is worth a visit as it was the poet’s birthplace, while his final resting place can be found at the Rudaki Cultural Complex in the modern town. Another famous poet, Loik Sherali, also known as the ‘People’s Poet of Tajikistan’, is honored with a statue in Penjikent: the Loik Sherali statue.
Other things to do in Penjikent include hiking and trekking through the hills of the scenic Zerafshan Valley and browsing the ever-popular bazaar in the center of town. For those with a love of hiking, Penjikent is a great starting point for exploring the Fann Mountains. As it is well located for enjoying other day trips in Tajikistan, it can be easily combined with any of Paramount Journey’s other itineraries.
Popular day-trips include traveling from Penjakent to the Seven Lakes Tajikistan (Marquzor Lakes), about 60 kilometers away, as well as to the vivid turquoise Iskanderkul Lake, the largest in the region. Take a look at the website for other exciting Tajikistan tours and itineraries.
