Shahrisabz is a city associated above all with one man. It was here that Timur the Lame, widely known as Tamerlane, was born – one of the most powerful and, at the same time, ruthless rulers in the history of Central Asia. Timur is a figure it is difficult to remain indifferent to. For Uzbeks, he is now regarded as one of their greatest national heroes. Throughout his homeland, you will find monuments, museums and entire historical complexes commemorating his power. But once you start reading about his conquests, the picture becomes considerably less heroic. Timur was a brilliant strategist and an extraordinarily effective ruler, but also a ruthless conqueror.…