Discover Khiva: Architecture, History and Cuisine

• The Djuma Mosque is part of Ichan Kala’s architectural ensemble.
• The Islam Khoja Minaret is 56.6 meters high and the second-tallest minaret in Central Asia.
• The Ko'hna Ark Fortress was the residence of the khans of Khiva.
• Shivit Osh is served with meat and vegetable sauce and qatiq.

The ensemble’s buildings include mosques, mausoleums, madrasas, caravanserais, and markets. A closer look at the Djuma Mosque shows how varied the architecture is within this ensemble: its covered courtyard measures 55 by 46 meters. Two octagonal lanterns dimly illuminate it, while 212 columns adorn the courtyard.

The Islam Khoja Minaret offers a different accent. At 56.6 meters tall, it is the second-tallest minaret in Central Asia. Inside, 175 steps lead down to a main circular hall with windows, which offers a view of the city. The mosque courtyard and the minaret can thus be viewed through their different forms and dimensions.

The Ko'hna Ark Fortress, also called Kunya-Ark, was built within Ichan-Qal’a in the late 17th century and served as the residence of the khans of Khiva. Its history connects the role of a ruler’s residence with the architectural history of the walled ensemble.

The mausoleums also convey different historical associations. The Uch-Avliyo Mausoleum was built in the second half of the 16th century in honor of three saints; it is located next to the west wall of Toshhovli Palace. The mausoleum complex around the tomb of Pahlavon Mahmud was built from 1664 to 1913 and is considered Khiva’s most important pilgrimage site. The two places thus represent different building periods and religious significance.

Local cuisine includes fish dishes prepared in a distinctive local style. Shivit Osh is served with meat and vegetable sauce and qatiq. Alongside the architecture, this gives you an insight into the town’s culinary specialties without reducing its cuisine to a single dish.

Local craftspeople make woodwork, including chess pieces, walking sticks, and carved doors. These examples range from smaller objects to elaborately worked architectural features. Cuisine and craftsmanship add to the picture of Ichan Kala with subjects that go beyond its monumental buildings.

If you’re looking for hotels in Khiva, you can start by deciding what you want to focus on during your trip: are you mainly interested in architecture and history, or also in local cuisine and craftsmanship? These interests can help guide your planning. Then check which hotel suits your personal requirements; the historic sights alone don’t tell you anything about the features of individual accommodations.

What role did Ichan Kala play for caravans?

Ichan Kala was the last resting place for caravans before they crossed the desert toward Iran.

What is known about the Ata-Darvaza Gate?

The gate was built from fired bricks between 1804 and 1806. In 1975, master craftsman Samandar Kalandarov had it reconstructed to its original appearance to preserve the sights of the museum reserve.

What is the history of the puppet theater in Ichan Kala?

The Khorezm Regional State Puppet Theater opened in 1993 in a historic building from the 1930s in Ichan Kala.

For the broader travel overview: Khiva District.