The Historic Centre of Shakhrisyabz contains fine monuments from the Timurid period (15th century). It was the non-formal capital of the Timurid Empire, the family seat and a city of culture and knowledge."Shakhrisyabz" is Persian for "Green City", as it is located in a fertile valley. Unlike Samarkand, the town has preserved its original town plan. The master piece here is the Aq-Saray Palace. It was founded in 1379 when Timur captured Konya Urgench. Masters and builders from all over the emp