What are 5 facts about Uzbekistan?

Uzbekistan is a country rich in history and culture, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Central Asia. Let’s see 5 facts about Uzbekistan.

1. Uzbekistan has two landlocked faces

Uzbekistan is one of only two doubly landlocked countries in the world. Only in Liechtenstein is it necessary to cross at least two other nations to access a coastline.

2. Uzbekistan is big on cotton

Cotton is a major export for Uzbekistan which accounts for about 17% of its total exports. Being one of the world's top producers of cotton, Uzbekistan's economy has been greatly influenced by this sector.

3. Russian is the second most spoken language in Uzbekistan

Since Russia has controlled Uzbekistan for around 200 years, the majority of Uzbeks speak Russian as a second language. Uzbekistan was a member of the Soviet Union, which was the name given to Russia and formerly included most of Central Asia and the East European Region. Among the most fascinating facts about Uzbekistan is this one.

4. The 56th largest sovereign state in the world is Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan covers an area of approximately 172,700 square miles. It is 580 miles long from south to north and 885 miles long from east to west. Not only is Uzbekistan sizeable, but it’s also home to some of the world’s oldest cities including Samarkand, which is over 2750 years old.

5. The country has some unusual etiquette

Handshakes are only acceptable to take place between two men in Uzbekistan. When you greet a Uzbek woman, you should put your right hand over your heart and bend down to her. Some popular manners include putting the oldest passenger in front of the youngest when riding a horse and rubbing your hands over your face to show gratitude after a meal.