40 Attractions in Khiva That Are Worth Seeing

Khiva is one of the oldest settlements in Uzbekistan and the capital of the ancient Khorezm state. In 1997, locals celebrated the 2500th anniversary of the city. The historical center can be called an <>: thanks to its unique architectural landmarks, it is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Khiva's attractions include ancient mosques, mausoleums, madrasahs, defensive towers, and palaces that have been well preserved to this day.

Itchan-Kala is the historical center of Khiva, protected by UNESCO. It represents a medieval fortress surrounded by strong walls (up to 10 meters high and 6 meters thick), with towers and gates. Within Itchan-Kala, you can find dozens of attractions from different eras.

Why visit. Itchan-Kala is well-preserved, which makes it very popular among tourists. During fortress tours, you can see:

In addition to monuments of religious and defensive architecture, palaces, and madrasahs, Itchan-Kala also contains ordinary residential houses. They also belong to the old architecture and greatly complement the appearance of the medieval fortress.

Address: Itchan-Kala, Boltaeva-41, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

Kunya-Ark is one of the most interesting attractions within the Itchan-Kala citadel. Construction of this fortress was initiated by Khudaidad-Khan in the late 17th century. However, the complex was not completed until the 19th century.

Why visit. To this day, the Kunya-Ark fortress has survived in a partially ruined state. Well-preserved:

Within the fortress, ancient mosques have also been preserved. The main building of the Kunya-Ark Palace has been lost.

Address: Kunya-Ark, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

Pahlavan Mahmud was a legendary wrestler, philosopher, and poet, revered in Khiva for ages. According to legends, he was buried in the courtyard of his workshop in the 14th century. Later, a mausoleum dedicated to him was erected at this site. In the 19th century, buildings for a mosque and madrasah were added.

Why visit. The mausoleum with a large turquoise dome is located within the Itchan-Kala fortress and is visible from various points in the city. The monumental building preserved to this day dates back to the early 19th century - it was built on the site of a more modest tomb.

The mausoleum is adorned with vibrant glazed tiles, and the windows are decorated with ornate copper grilles. The interior of the mausoleum is also worthy of attention: the tomb is clad in majolica with golden patterns. The complex contains valuable examples of wood carving, engraving, and inlay.

Address: Mausoleum of Pahlavan Mahmud, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

Tash-Howli is a palace complex located in the eastern part of Khiva, built in the 1830s by order of the ruler Allakuli-Khan. It is one of the largest architectural monuments of the first half of the 19th century that has survived intact.

Why visit. The main building of the palace is decorated with majolica: the traditional white and blue tiled facade is used both on the exteriors and in the interiors. Pay attention to the decorative window grilles and the original ceiling paintings. The complex includes not just the Khan's quarters, but also the harem building, servant rooms, a court hall (arzkhona), and several other places. During the tour, you can peek into the cozy inner courtyard, which has a platform for setting up yurts.

Address: Tash-Howli Palace, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

The unusual Kalta-Minor minaret is located within the Itchan-Kala fortress. The construction of the minaret next to the madrasah began in 1852, and the architects aimed to reach a height of 70-80 meters. However, in 1855, the client of the construction, Muhammad Amin-Khan, died, and the work was halted. As a result, it was decided to leave the minaret unfinished.

Why visit. The height of Kalta-Minor is less than 30 meters, yet it stands out against the backdrop of other constructions in Itchan-Kala. The minaret is richly decorated with glazed tiles in shades of green, blue, and aqua, with patterns and Arabic calligraphy on its surface. Its width at the base is over 14 meters, tapering slightly towards the top. Despite being incomplete, Kalta-Minor looks harmonious.

Address: Kalta-Minor Minaret, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

The Islam-Khoja complex looks like traditional medieval architecture typical of Khiva, but it was actually built only in the early 20th century. It is named after the local vizier who served under Muhammad Rahim-Khan II.

Why visit. The most prominent part of the Islam-Khoja complex is the tall minaret (over 56 meters), visible from afar. It has the characteristic form of Central Asian architecture and tapers towards the top. The cladding of white, blue, turquoise, and other shades gives the minaret an elegant look. At about 45 meters up, there is an observation deck from which you can enjoy a view of the city.

Next to the minaret is a madrasah building with an inner courtyard. The complex also includes a mosque with a low dome. All constructions in Islam-Khoja are designed in a unified style.

Address: Islam Khoja Minaret, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

The Juma Mosque (translated as <<Friday Mosque>>) is located in the central part of the Itchan-Kala fortress. It was built in the 18th century, with the foundation laid on an ancient mosque dating back to the 10th century.

Why visit. Today, Juma Mosque is not only an important religious center for the residents of Khiva but also a tourist attraction. The architecture of the building differs from later mosques: there are no domes or arches; it is a single-story structure with a flat roof and thick walls.

You can look inside and admire the intricate carvings on the doors and wooden columns. Some interior elements date back to the 10th-14th centuries - they were preserved during the mosque's reconstruction and carefully restored. Next to the main mosque building stands a minaret.

Address: Juma Mosque, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

The new madrasah near the caravanserai and the eastern gate of the Itchan-Kala fortress was built in the 1830s. The builder was the ruler of the Khivan Khanate, Allakuli.

Why visit. The Madrasah of Allakuli-Khan is a 19th-century architectural monument, a popular tourist attraction. The building is well-preserved: its facade is decorated with patterns of white and black majolica, as well as shades of blue. Arched niches, columns, and portals are adorned with traditional ornaments.

The interiors of the madrasah are modest: there is no notable decor. The layout includes 99 cells for students, a large lecture hall, a library, and a mosque.

Address: Madrasah of Allakuli-Khan, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

In the mid-19th century, Allakuli-Khan actively built in Khiva. Among the buildings erected by his order, the caravanserai, built in 1832-1833, holds a special place. The Khivan Khanate was located at the intersection of trade routes, so many merchants - from Russia, Persia, and other countries - came here. In the new caravanserai, they could store their goods, stop for a night, and conduct trade.

Why visit. The caravanserai complex of Allakuli-Khan is a rectangular structure measuring approximately 70 by 60 meters. The external walls are undecorated, while the facades facing the inner courtyard are whitewashed. The doors and other wooden elements of the caravanserai are adorned with artistic carvings.

Address: Allakuli Khan Caravanserai, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

Said Allauddin was a Sufi sheikh who lived in the late 13th-early 14th century and preached Islam in Khiva. The mausoleum built after his death has survived to this day and is one of the oldest architectural attractions in the city.

Why visit. The mausoleum, which has a square shape, is built of roughly hewn brick and has no external decoration. Such simple decoration is typical of Khorezmian structures from the 13th to 15th centuries.

Tourists can inspect the mausoleum's interior, with an entrance that is open daily. Inside, you can see tiled gravestones adorned with paintings. Most of the interior decoration dates back to the 19th century. At the upper part of the mausoleum, there is a viewing platform.

Address: Sayid Allauddin Mausoleum, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

Several ancient educational institutions are located within the Itchan-Kala fortress, including the 19th-century madrasah built by order of Muhammad Amin-Khan. The construction was completed in 1854.

Why visit. The Madrasah of Muhammad Amin-Khan could accommodate up to 260 students, for whom 130 cells were arranged. This was one of the largest educational institutions not only in Khiva but also in all of Central Asia. Now, the building houses a hotel, and the former student rooms have been converted into guest rooms.

The architecture of the madrasah is excellently preserved. The high walls made of yellow brick are decorated with majolica, topped with domes and corner towers. The original decor of the latticework in the arches and the wood carvings on the doors have survived to this day.

Address: Madrasah of Muhammad Amin-Khan, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

The Nuruallbay palace complex is a khan's residence built in the early 20th century. During this time, the city was under the protectorate of the Russian Empire, so in the palace you can see not only traditional local motives but also European styles. German colonists also participated in the building's decoration, making its architecture and interiors even more original.

Why visit. Nuruallbay Palace attracts tourists with its eclectic style, which features elements of Uzbek national architecture and Russian modernism. It can be inspected both from the outside and inside: the interiors are decorated with ceramic stoves, wooden ceilings, tall doors (made by German carpenters), paintings, huge mirrors, and luxurious chandeliers.

Address: Nuriullabai Palace, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

The madrasah, built in Khiva in 1855, was named after Abdulla Khan - a young ruler who died in battle. The building is located in the historic center of the city, not far from the Ak Mosque.

Why visit. The well-preserved light brick building of the madrasah is an architectural monument. It is a rectangular structure with corner towers, single-story cells, and a domed mosque.

Within the inner courtyard, there is a well; you can also see the decorated arched openings. Since 1960, the museum of nature of Khorezm has been operating in the building, open to tourists: here you can learn about the animals and plants of the Khivan region.

GPS coordinates: 41.37743, 60.36067.

When choosing what to see in Khiva, one cannot miss the legendary foundation site of the city - the Kheyvak Well. According to one legend, the city was founded by the biblical Shem (son of Noah), who found a source of clean, tasty water here. The ancient well in the Itchan-Kala fortress has survived to this day.

Why visit. You can see the Kheyvak Well during a tour of Itchan-Kala: this small, stone-laid source is located in one of the inner courtyards in the northwest of the fortress. The well is well-maintained and regularly restored. Archaeologists confirm the considerable age of the source: it is believed that ancient merchants used it while traveling along the Great Silk Road.

Address: Kheivak Well, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

The madrasah, built during the reign of Shergazi-Khan, is located near the mausoleum of Pahlavan Mahmud. This is one of the oldest educational institutions in the city, opened as early as the beginning of the 18th century and having produced many renowned students.

Why visit. Shergazi-Khan Madrasah is located in the center of the Itchan-Kala citadel, making it easy to include in a tourist itinerary. In the 20th century, a major restoration was performed on the site, and now the building is in good condition. Tourists can stroll through the inner courtyard with entrances to student cells and appreciate the simple traditional architecture of the complex.

Address: Uzbekistan, Khiva, Sherg'ozixon Madrasasi.

When the inner Itchan-Kala citadel became too cramped, the ruler of Khiva, Allakuli-Khan, decided to construct another defensive wall. The fortifications of Dishan-Kala were erected around the external borders of the city in the 19th century. The total length of the 8-meter high walls exceeds 6 kilometers. They protected the neighborhoods of craftsmen, trading squares, gardens, and administrative buildings.

Why visit. Although Dishan-Kala was constructed later than the inner citadel, it has been worse preserved. The protective walls have been nearly completely destroyed. However, within the Dishan-Kala fortress, you can see interesting attractions, such as:

GPS coordinates: 41.3766409635758, 60.37002886880886.

The Ak Mosque, or the White Mosque, was built in the mid-19th century on a foundation laid as early as 1657. It served as a place of prayer for the faithful living in the surrounding neighborhoods. In the 1950s, the building was restored and continues to be used by local residents.

Why visit. The Ak Mosque is made of burnt brick, is small in size, and is not distinguished by lavish decor. The facades are clad with white ganch (from which the mosque gets its name), and the window grilles are made from it as well. The doors are decorated with carvings. Inside, the walls are adorned with Arabic calligraphy and geometric patterns.

Address: Ak Mosque, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

Near the Ak Mosque, there are ancient Khivan baths built in the mid-17th century. They are equipped with systems for water supply, heating, and drainage of used water.

Why visit. The Baths of Anush-Khan are an interesting example of medieval architecture. They are built according to the traditional scheme of Eastern baths and consist of semi-subterranean chambers with round domes. Water for treatments was taken from the well, heated, and supplied to the washing chambers. The utility rooms of the bath complex have also been preserved.

GPS coordinates: 41.37696199997422, 60.36185858362436.

Avesta is the sacred book of the Zoroastrian religion, which residents of Khiva practiced before the adoption of Islam. The Avesta Museum reminds of this period in the city's history and operates within the Itchan-Kala fortress.

Why visit. The museum is located in the Matpanabai madrasah building, an architectural monument from the early 20th century. Its exhibition tells about Zoroastrianism: here you can learn about the features of this religion, its history, and interactions with other religious traditions. The museum's collection also includes archaeological artifacts found in Khiva and its surroundings.

GPS coordinates: 41.37785610028647, 60.3598636365378.

The architectural complex built by the merchant Said Niyaz in the mid-19th century is located within the external fortress of Dishan-Kala. Its first building was the mosque constructed in 1842, later a madrasah was added to it.

Why visit. All the architectural monuments of the complex are well-preserved. You can explore the mosque, decorated with carved wooden columns and faced with white gypsum panels. Next to it towers a graceful 24-meter minaret, decorated with traditional Khivan patterns. The minaret has an observation deck from which you can enjoy the surrounding area.

GPS coordinates: 41.376803, 60.362536.

The Madrasah of Kazi Kalyan is named after the chief city judge, who ordered its construction in 1905. Students studied not only traditional religion here but also applied sciences, including tax matters and law.

Why visit. The madrasah building was designed to accommodate 35 students. Cells, a mosque, and other rooms were built for them. Currently, a museum dedicated to the musical art of Khorezm operates within them: take a tour to learn about the instruments played by the residents of Khiva in ancient times, as well as to listen to ancient melodies.

Address: Madrasah of Kazi-Kalyan, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

Bikanzhan-Bika is a complex of buildings next to the mausoleum of Shokalandar Baba. The shrine in memory of the revered elder in the city was erected in the 16th century, and the complex of madrasah and mosque was built in the 1890s.

Why visit. You can start your visit to the complex at the ancient mausoleum: a small domed tomb with a portal has survived to this day. The single-story madrasah building is also an architectural monument: it has the traditional layout of such educational institutions with cells for students. The complex is completed by a mosque with a tall minaret.

Address: 19A Palvana Kori St., Khiva, Uzbekistan.

The Mausoleum of Shakhimardan is located away from the historical center, to the west of the borders of Dishan-Kala. It was formed near the cemetery, among the burials of local warriors, around the 18th century.

Why visit. The mausoleum is an architectural and religious monument. Nearby, you can also view the madrasah built in the late 19th century and a mosque. The complex also includes a small minaret decorated with green tiles: its height is only 5 meters, and the diameter at the base is about one and a half meters.

The Chadra-Khavli Palace (Chodra-Hauli) was built in the 18th century on the outskirts of Khiva. It served as a summer residence for local rulers. The main building of the complex has been rebuilt several times, with the last major reconstruction taking place in 1871.

Why visit. The three-story palace has unusual architecture resembling a tower about 20 meters high. On the first level were the stables and storage rooms; on the second and third were the living quarters. Now, the summer palace can be inspected both from the outside and inside, although the interiors have only partially survived. From the upper level, there are beautiful views of the green oasis and the minarets of central Khiva.

GPS coordinates: 41.382904, 60.483206.

The Kutlug Murad Complex is located within the Itchan-Kala fortress. It consists of a two-story madrasah and a mosque. Construction of the complex was underway in the early 19th century at the behest of Kutlug Murad Inak, brother of the ruler of Khiva.

Why visit. The Kutlug Murad complex features the city's first two-story madrasah. It was modeled after the educational institution of Abdullaziz-Khan in Bukhara, while local materials and techniques were used in its decoration. For instance, the doors of the madrasah are adorned with wood carvings characteristic of Khivan craftsmen.

When examining the complex, pay attention to the patterned brickwork of the walls, the terracotta decor of the towers, and the niche imitating stalactites. In the inner courtyard, an ancient well has been preserved, from which residents of the entire area drew water.

Address: Madrasah of Kutlug Murad Inaka, Madrassah of Khurdjum and Allakuli-Khan, Khiva, Uzbekistan.

To the east of the Dishan-Kala fortress stands the mausoleum of Abd Al Bobo, built in honor of one of the first Khivan propagators of Islam. It is believed that the memorial appeared here as early as the 8th century but has been rebuilt several times. The structure as it stands today dates back to the 18th century. Next to the mausoleum are madrasahs, two mosques, and a pond.

Why visit. The main attraction of the complex is the mausoleum, designed in the Bukhara style but using Khivan wood carving. Nearby, there is a 10-meter minaret adorned with a cornice.

Address: Eastern part of Dishan-Kala.

The name of Sheikh Kalandar (or Shakalanda) Baba is associated with a traditional 19th-century complex consisting of a mausoleum, madrasah, and mosque with a minaret. It is located on the territory of a cemetery of the same name.

Why visit. The main architectural attraction of the complex is the madrasah with cells for students around its perimeter. The single-domed mausoleum is also interesting; it was restored in 1997. Nearby stands an 18-meter minaret with a wide base (6 meters in diameter).

GPS coordinates: 41.379426, 60.355299.

The madrasah, built in 1906 with the funds of Yusuf Yasulbashi, is located within the Itchan-Kala citadel. Currently, the building houses the municipal services of the city.

Why visit. Despite its relatively young age, the building of the madrasah is a cultural heritage site of Uzbekistan. The complex has a classic rectangular shape with small corner towers. The door and window openings are decorated with ornamental arches, and the main entrance is adorned with a portal. There is also a mosque next to the madrasah.

GPS coordinates: 41.37886794956213, 60.36020759162971.

Yar Muhammad Devon's Mosque is located in the historical center of Khiva, next to the popular mausoleum of Said Allauddin. The building was constructed in the 18th century.

Why visit. The mosque is characterized by small size and simple architecture. Its classic rectangular shape is slightly narrowed in the western part - possibly due to a later addition to the originally square building. Although the Yar Muhammad Devon Mosque does not have exquisite decor, it is a valuable example of 18th-century Khivan architecture.

GPS coordinates: 41°22'37.0"N 60°21'29.0"E.

The Madrasah of Mazari Sharif, whose name translates to <<Grave of Noble People>>, was built in Itchan-Kala in 1882. The work was funded by Isa-Tyura, son of ruler Muhammad Rahim-Khan.

Why visit. Mazari Sharif is rather modestly sized: it is a single-story building less than 30 meters long and about 16 meters wide. There is no dedicated mosque or large lecture hall like in many other similar institutions. The architecture of the madrasah is traditional; its interiors are adorned with carved columns and doors featuring Arabic calligraphy.

GPS coordinates: 41°22'37.0"N 60°21'35.0"E.

The mosque dedicated to Sheikh Mykhtar Ata is located next to the mausoleum of Pahlavan Mahmud within the Itchan-Kala fortress. The building dates back to the early 19th century and was built as a prayer house for residents of the nearby houses.

Why visit. The old neighborhood mosque was renovated for Khiva's anniversary celebration, which was widely celebrated in 1997, so it is now in good condition. During the tour, you can inspect the interiors for prayer and the summer terrace (ayvan).

Address: Sheikh Mykhtar Ata Mosque, Khiva, Uzbekistan (Near the northern part of the mausoleum of Pahlavan Mahmud).

Palvan Kari was the name of a Khivan merchant who traded with Russian enterprises. With his funds, a new mosque with a large minaret was built in 1905. A madrasah was also built near it.

Why visit. The Palvan Kari complex is located within the Dishan-Kala fortress, so it can be included in the itinerary for a tour of the <>. When visiting, pay attention to the atypically cylindrical minaret of the mosque (without tapering at the top), decorated with patterned brickwork and green tiles.

Address: Palvan Kari Minaret, Khiva, Uzbekistan (Nearby the Seyid-bi complex).

One of Khiva's valuable mausoleums, Payando, dates back to the medieval architecture of the 16th century. The brick building is located next to the Juma Mosque in the Itchan-Kala citadel.

Why visit. The small mausoleum, topped with a neat dome, has a simple layout. Inside, there is a tomb site (at the underground level) as well as a prayer hall (above ground). The building is decorated with traditional Khivan gypsum decor - ganch - which local craftsmen turn into exquisite patterns.

Address: Next to the Juma Mosque in the Itchan-Kala fortress.

The year of construction for the madrasah Mamad Maram is considered to be 1903, during the reign of Muhammad Rahim-Khan. The construction was financed by a local official holding a high position as the Khan's advisor.

Why visit. The madrasah and its attached mosque are considered architectural monuments. These are brick buildings with terrace-ayvans, domed prayer halls, and a minaret. The complex decorates wood columns made in the traditional Khivan technique.

GPS coordinates: 41°22'42"N 60°21'13"E.

The madrasah built with the funds of Matpanabay-Khan was constructed in Khiva in 1905. A location was chosen in the historical center of the city, not far from the Juma Mosque.

Why visit. Matpanabay Madrasah is an architectural monument. The building has a single-story layout and presents a rectangle measuring approximately 25 by 25 meters. Inside, there are ten student cells, a large lecture hall, and a mosque. The entire complex is built of baked brick. Since 2001, the building has housed the <<Avesta>> museum, dedicated to Zoroastrianism.

GPS coordinates: 41.377918, 60.360132 (Not far from the Juma Mosque.)

Next to the madrasah of Muhammad Rahim-Khan is another educational institution built with the funds of Matniyaz (Muhammad Niyaz) Divanbegi. The year of construction for the complex is considered to be 1871.

Why visit. The Matniyaz Divanbegi Madrasah is part of the Itchan-Kala complex, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The building has a traditional layout with khudjras (students' rooms), a hall, summer open, and winter closed mosques. Corner towers are installed at the corners of the rectangular madrasah. Only the main facade of the complex and the towers are decorated: they are adorned with colorful glazed bricks and patterns.

GPS coordinates: 41.378081, 60.358388 (Near the madrasah of Muhammad Rahim-Khan.)

The Mausoleum of the Three Saints, or Uch-Ovliye, is a complex next to the Tash-Hauli Palace. It contains tombs from different eras, the earliest dating back to the 16th century. The ancient complex has been restored multiple times: a large-scale renovation was carried out in the 1820s and later, in the 1980s, after heavy rains, the mausoleum was reconstructed again.

Why visit. Tourists visit the mausoleum of the Three Saints to admire its architecture and interiors. The complex is adorned with majolica tiles with traditional floral ornaments and inscriptions. The inner hall of the mausoleum is under a large dome, with the entrance decorated with a portal and beautiful columns: these were damaged by rains in the 1980s but have since been restored. Inside, you can see several gravestones.

Address: Tash-Hauli Palace, Khiva, Uzbekistan. (In the backyard of the Tash-Hauli Palace (Stone Palace).)

The Said Bay Minaret appeared in 1855, funded by a wealthy local merchant. This is one of the most famous Khivan towers, becoming an important part of the cityscape.

Why visit. The minaret, decorated with patterned tiles and terracotta inserts, is one of the tallest in Khiva (about 30 meters in height). Anyone can climb it: there is a spiral staircase with 175 steps leading to the top. The minaret is located in the central part of the city, near the gates of Itchan-Kala, so magnificent views can be seen from its top.

Address: Palvan-Darwaza Gates, Khiva, Uzbekistan. (At the Palvan-Darwaza gates behind the walls of Itchan-Kala.)

The memorial complex named after Khivan Khan Said Muhammad actually serves as a mausoleum for several local rulers. It was built in the 19th century in the place where, according to tradition, a revered Sufi was buried.

Why visit. The mausoleum, where Khivan khans are interred, has been restored and is open for visits as a site of religious worship, architectural, and historical significance. The complex is decorated with patterned plasterwork and mosaics. The main building is framed by towers, and architectural elements boast symmetrical arched designs.

GPS coordinates: 41°22'58.0"N 60°21'56.0"E.

In the historical part of Khiva, an eastern bazaar is still in operation: a traditional market that is frequented not only by locals but also by tourists. It is located next to the Palvan Darwaza gates.

Why visit. At the Khivan bazaar, you can buy works made by local craftsmen: carpets, traditional clothing, jewelry, dishes, musical instruments. Fruits, nuts, sweets, legendary Uzbek pilaf, tea, and other goods are also sold here. Trade becomes particularly active on Sundays.

GPS coordinates: 41.377160, 60.362198.