Sentob: Mysterious Village
Under-explored Uzbekistan continues to surprise guests with its pockets of extraordinary, seemingly untouched beauty. One of these corners is the village of Sentob, located deep in the Nuratau Mountains of Navoi.
Words by Fatima Abdieva
Photos by Marat Nadjibaev
According to tradition, the name Sentob (or ‘Simtob’) means ‘shining silver or gold’, and legend has it that, hundreds of years ago, a settlement in this area was attacked by invaders. Having brutally and ruthlessly dealt with the people and plundered everything on the way, the attackers retreated. During the battle, only a young girl around 11 years old miraculously survived. Fearful after the invasion, she ran to a neighbouring village and eventually moved to a city. Years later, she had grown up, gotten married and become rich, but thoughts about the her native village haunted her. So, Sentob was built, thanks to hardworking hands, flourishing and giving happiness to each other.
Many centuries have passed and Sentob village continues to function and feel much like a traditional Central Asian village. The local residents are said to be stunningly attractive with open souls, wide smiles and abundant happiness. Life is peaceful, with villagers utilising the traditional transport of donkeys, cooking over fire, admiring the stars at night and ever serenaded by the murmur of the river. Mornings begin with the crowing of roosters as the sun warms nearby mountaintops and life renews with comforting constancy.
Despite the Sentob’s remoten location, it is becoming a popular place to visit, with guesthouses and recreation areas opening. Many of the guesthouses are equipped with all the necessities, and guests will be able to see local sights and taste regional dishes made with eco-friendly products.
Guests can witness and participate in the daily lives of local residents, from the preparation of bread in clay ovens, to wedding celebrations, and traditional spectator sports like kupkari. There are also opportunities to ride horses or go rock climbing in nearby mountainous areas. Of course, you can also simply relax and enjoy the peaceful birdsong while sitting on a cot with tea.
If you are adventurous enough, you can climb to the highest point of Sentob Mountain, where there are buildings more than 2500 years old, as well as fossils of historic wildlife. Also nearby is Aydarkul Lake, 30 kilometers to the north of the village, where you can go fishing, swimming or just admire the soothing waters and wildlife.
This is not just a mountainous area tourist hotspot. Sentob offers a real chance to see traditions passed down from our ancient ancestors, which have left a mark on our lives.
