The ancient city of Khiva which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a marvelous and significant historical site, but is also the one which is often overlooked. Located in the main Silk Road route, it used to be a major trading and commercial post along the route. Because of its significance and centeredness to the Silk Route, it was named the capital of the Islamic Khanate in 16th century.
Ancient Khiva was visited by personalities like traveler Al Istachri and famous geographer Ibn Battuta who both dubbed this place as a city with excellent law and order and planning which can still be found in the ruins and numerous oriental building complexes found throughout the city.
With a history spanning two millennia, Khiva is home to some of the most ancient monuments in Central Asia built by its rulers from time to time. Here are the main tourist sightseeing spots you must visit on your Khiva City Tour:
Itchan-Kala
It is the inner fortress of Khiva which is surrounded by 10-meters high walls made of bricks primarily. With a history spanning two kiloyears, it accommodates 51 ancient monuments along 250 dwelling and displays all of which are outstanding example of Central Asian architecture.
Islam Khodja Complex
It is the most prominent architectural complex situated in Itchan-Kala. The towering minaret in this complex especially is a. Evidently, the complex is named after Islam Khodja, the first prime minister of Khiva Khanate.
Djuma Mosque
This “Friday Mosque” is the center of Itchan-Kala constructed in the eighteenth century. The flat ceiling and the wooden carved columns of this archaic mosque serve as entrance for moonlight which creates an exceptional prayer atmosphere.
Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasah
This is the largest madrasa in Khiva located in the western part of the inner fortress of Itchan-Kala. It is now used as a hotel for tourist accommodation purposes.
Kalta Minor Minaret
It is among the prominent minarets standing tall in Khiva. The turquoise-tiled exteriors give it a unique touch and make it exuberantly gorgeous. It has a height of 29 meters which is lesser than it was originally planned because of the death of its architect, Mohammad Amin Khan who was the ruler of Khwarezm.
Pakhlavan Mahmoud Mausoleum
The mausoleum of Pakhlavan Mahmoud is a sacred place drawing pilgrims from across the country. Named after the saint leader himself, it is deemed as an excellent place for exploring the rich history and culture of Uzbekistan.
Kunya-Ark Fortress
Resembling a town inside of a town, this fortress was constructed to serve as the accommodation place for Khans, their families, and their dignitaries. Mosques, official buildings, guardhouses, and ancient treasuries are still preserved in this place.
Tomb of SayidAllauddin
Even though small in size, this is one of the most ancient monuments in Khiva where the cemetery of Saint SayidAllauddin is housed.
Stone Palace (TashKhauli)
This was the resident place of the royals which contains many chambers, private rooms, gigantic halls, courtyards, and harems. Visit this place with a tour guide to make the most of your visit.
Unfortunately, what we see now as modern Khiva is just a faint impression of once a prosperous secret pearl located on the Silk Road route. Much of the place either got ruined or destroyed completely because of the continuous wars and conquest of this place. But what remains today nonetheless are more than enough to give a complete and unforgettable city excursion experience. Kindly visit our Contact Us page to get in touch with us with any inquiries or bookings for Khiva city tour packages.