Samarkand If it is said that a paradise is to be seen in this world, then the paradise of this world is Samarkand. --quoted by 'Ata-Malik Juvaini (Boyle transl.) Samarkand is one of the oldest and most important cities amongst the many in the historic region of Central Asia known as Transoxiana. Located in the Zarafshan River valley, the city enjoys the benefits of abundant natural resources and ...