In written sources, the name of the city was first reported in the beginning of the 11th century. According to Abu Rayhan Beruni, the word was originated from Turkic "Tash"(“Stone”) and "Kent"(“City”). Thus, Tashkent means "Stone City". However, one assumes that the first component of this name is more ancient and dates back to "Chach," which was later transformed in “Tash” by Arabs, as there was no letter “H” in their language and script, and by Turks, because of the consonance of individual characters in Turk language. TASHKENT IS CAPITAL OF UZBEKISTAN.
The earliest mention of "Chach" dates back to 262 AD. Chach’s Mountains, along with other areas of Central Asia, are mentioned in the inscriptions of King Shapur I (241-272) at the Kaaba of Zoroaster. Chach is assumed to be a truncated form of names Chacha or Chachani. It is shown in minted coins in this area in that form. NATIONAL HOLIDAYS OF UZBEKISTAN.
Day of independence The main national holiday of the Republic of Uzbekistan is the Day Independence. This holiday is celebrated annually on the 1st September, is ceremonial and colorful. This national holiday personifies all dreams and expectations of all Uzbek people which lean on main principles friendliness, solidarity, charity, mutual respect. Representatives of the various nations living in Uzbekistan, despite of a nationality, religion, the social status all actively celebrate a holiday in each street, the area and the people living in mahallas and in regions.
NAVRUZ
The most ancient national holiday Navruz (in translation with Persian Navruz designates "new day") which is celebrated on March, 21st, is considered the beginning of new year. As is known, March 21st is a day a spring equinox. Day length and nights is identical - 12 hours. In the beginning of this holiday many Uzbek families prepare for national dishes such as Sumalak, Halim, Somsa from plant, Plov and others. These Uzbek dishes contain many vitamin substances which are useful to a human body.
