In just a couple of days, fourteen members of DEN, including myself, will venture into a country whose history seems to be the epitome of the term ‘complex.’ Over the course of its 2500-year civilizational history, Uzbekistan has been part of ten major empires, including the Persian, Mongol, Timurid, and Russian Empires, leaving its culture to be pieced together by the distinctive cultures and influences of its past. But, refraining from getting too caught up in its extraordinary past and missing out on real immersion, I’ve chosen to focus on the timeless mosaic that is Uzbek culture. And that, in turn, has led to two questions that I wish to understand during my trip. First, how the Uzbeks, a majority Islamic nation, reconciled their time during Soviet control, and second, how does a nation carry the weight of so many histories without losing a clear sense of identity? I’ll make sure to get back to you on my findings in my post-trip blog!
On a personal note, I am extremely excited to spend time in the capital city, Tashkent, as it doesn’t feel like any other city I’ve been to before. Mirroring its culture, Tashkent’s architecture is particularly distinct. Its architecture appears to be heavily influenced by Soviet brutalism, while retaining traditional Islamic characteristics, and polished with a hint of modern glass skyscrapers. Before the Model UN, starting on the 1st of May, I plan to do as much sightseeing as possible, but certain sights have already caught my eye. I am particularly eager to visit the Kamoliddin Behzod Museum of Oriental Miniature Art. From my limited understanding, miniature art represents one of the most intricate and historically significant forms of Islamic artistic expression. In its very specific manner, miniaturist art attempts to preserve history, literature, and scholarship, which has carried its importance across the Islamic world. And apparently this art form is experiencing a renaissance in Uzbekistan, particularly in artistic centres like Bukhara and Samarkand. Admittedly, I think this Museum, along with the striking art that Uzbekistan offers, is something I am most excited to experience during this trip.
Of course, this blog wouldn’t be complete without mentioning my and our entire group’s anticipation of visiting Samarkand: the heart of the Silk Road. On the 28th of April, an early departure and a late arrival back to Tashkent grant us a day to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which I’m hoping will be enough time. Personally, I’m counting the days until this day trip, and I have absolutely no doubt that it will surpass my already inflated expectations.
After several days of sightseeing, our final days in Uzbekistan will be spent at the Westminster International University in Tashkent, where we will take part in a Model UN (TIMUN). Funny enough, I’ve been avoiding attending an MUN since I was 15. The concept has always scared me, as it meant I had to speak in front of so many people and be judged on what I had to say. Ultimately, I’ve run away from it, and for this, I feel tremendously eager to make up for it and face this strange fear of mine. So, from the 1st to the 3rd of May, I will be representing Brazil at the WHO at TIMUN in Uzbekistan. Admittedly (and maybe naively), I chose a rather large-scale conference to face this fear, but I’m sure that at the end of this conference, and at the end of this trip, I will leave Tashkent feeling that I have grown. Whether that growth takes shape through my resilience, adaptability, or even my network, I’ll feel grateful for the opportunity, nonetheless.
Lastly, I just want to thank DEN and those involved in making this happen. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that represents how far DEN has come, especially in building its Global Connections.
Aiden Furnari
SilkRoadSeeker
Sounds like an incredible trip! I’ve always been fascinated by the Silk Road and Uzbekistan’s rich past.