Denov

Dating from the 16th century, the Sayyid Atalik Madrasa is one of the largest madrasas in Central Asia. It was described a century later by the Balkh historian Mahmund ibn-Vali in his geographical encyclopedia.[6] From this account we know that the madrasa was initially part of a larger architectural ensemble, but the other buildings have not survived.

In the centre of the madrassa is a large building on the north-south axis, and there are arches surrounding the courtyard. The niche in the portal is unusual in that it is built on a semi-octahedron plan.[7] There are also a series of low cupolas and some attractive ghanch decoration inside.

The Sayyid Atalik Madrasa operated as a religious school until 1935, when it was closed by the Soviets. It reopened briefly from 1991-1997, then closed for renovation.[8] It is now classed as a historic monument rather than a religious building, and it is therefore possible for the public (including non-Muslims) to visit.[9]

Located  just south of Denov’s centre is the R Shreder Dendrarium, an arboretum housing more than 1,000 species of native and non-native plants.[9] The plants were collected by scientists, and also received as gifts from official visitors. As well as common trees, herbs, and flowers indigenous to Uzbekistan, the non-native species grown here range from kauchuk (natural rubber) and bamboo, to sequoia and a notable collection of persimmons.

Dating from the 10th century, the ruined Fortress of Yurchi is located 8 km from Denov on the road towards Termez. The fortress was made from mud bricks and once had an impressive tower, though not much now remains.[10]

Kalchayan was a Graeco-Bactrian city, and it was first settled in the 4th Century BC. It is 10 km northeast of the modern settlement of Denov and was excavated in the mid 20th century by Soviet archaeologist Professor Galina Pugachenkova. Pugachenkova and her colleagues found large quantities of Kushan-era sculptures with lifelike features: the hairstyles, dress, and ethnic features of Kalchayan’s ancient inhabitants are clearly depicted.[9] These sculptures and other important archaeological finds from Kalchayan are on display at the Termez Archaeological Museum and the State Fine Art Museum in Tashkent.

Dalverzin Tepe is a major archeological site between Denov and Termez. It was founded as a fortress in a Hellenistic style, and by the 1st century BC had grown into a substantial city. Dalverzin Tepe flourished under the Kushan Empire, and some superb examples of Kushan art have been excavated from the site, including wall paintings, gold decorations, and statues.

There are also the remains of a Buddhist temple.[11]