Here are some pictures of Bukhara and Samarkand in Uzbekistan. These cities were an important exchange place during the silk road period (V-XIIc.), when products coming from the West were meeting those coming from China.
Uzbekistan is now slowly becoming a touristic destination for Russians and organized tours from all over Europe. Bukhara, Samarkand, these mythical names are attractive for authenticity seekers and history geeks. However, these cities might well become victims of their success: by wanting to please tourists and “tidying up” the place excessively, they risk becoming an artificial showroom while other types of “made in China” products are rapidly replacing the precious silk and spices in the local bazaars.