The Uzbek-Italian Archaeological Project (UIAP) “Samarkand and its Territory”

Located in a strategic position along the main communication routes between East and West, and at the heart of economic and cultural phenomena such as the Silk Roads, Samarkand is one of the major oases in Eurasia. The historical importance of this region is reflected in its rich and diverse archaeological heritage. Since 2001, the UIAP has aimed to comprehensively study the urban evolution of Samarkand in relation to the transformations of its surrounding territory, through a multi-temporal and multi-scalar approach that includes a wide range of activities and the involvement of specialists from various disciplines. The main themes addressed include socio-environmental interactions, irrigation system, semi-mobile pastoralism, and the enhancement and protection of cultural heritage through collaboration and engagement with local authorities and communities.