The ancient city of Khiva, located in the Republic of Uzbekistan, is an architectural and historical wonder. It is home to the Ichan-Kala, a walled inner city that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. This gorgeous city is full of stunning architecture, fascinating culture, and a rich history. Here are 10 things to do in Ichan-Kala, Khiva Uzbekistan.
1. Visit the Kalta Minor Minaret
The Kalta Minor Minaret is the most impressive of the many minarets in Khiva. It is an unfinished minaret, standing at an impressive height of 29 meters. The minaret was commissioned by the ruler of Khiva, Muhammad Amin Khan, and was intended to be the tallest minaret in the world. Unfortunately, the ruler died before it could be completed, leaving it unfinished.
2. Explore the Kunya-Ark Citadel
The Kunya-Ark Citadel is the oldest part of the Ichan-Kala. It was built in the 17th century and was the palace of the Khan of Khiva. The citadel is full of stunning architecture, including the Kalta Minor Minaret, the Tash Hauli Palace, and the Juma Mosque.
3. Admire the Tash Hauli Palace
The Tash Hauli Palace is the most beautiful building in the Ichan-Kala. It was built in the 19th century and is a stunning example of Central Asian architecture. The palace is decorated with stunning mosaics and intricate carvings.
4. Visit the Juma Mosque
The Juma Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Khiva. It was built in the 17th century and is a stunning example of Central Asian architecture. The mosque is decorated with intricate carvings and beautiful mosaics.
5. Explore the Pakhlavan Mahmoud Mausoleum
The Pakhlavan Mahmoud Mausoleum is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. It was built in the 18th century and is the final resting place of the famous Sufi poet and philosopher, Pakhlavan Mahmoud. The mausoleum is decorated with intricate carvings and beautiful mosaics.
6. Visit the Islom Hoja Minaret
The Islom Hoja Minaret is one of the most impressive minarets in Khiva. It was built in the 19th century and is an impressive example of Islamic architecture. The minaret is decorated with intricate carvings and beautiful mosaics.
7. Explore the Itchan Kala Bazaar
The Itchan Kala Bazaar is the oldest bazaar in Khiva. It was built in the 17th century and is a bustling marketplace full of vendors selling everything from spices to souvenirs. The bazaar is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
8. Admire the Allakulikhan Madrassah
The Allakulikhan Madrassah is one of the oldest madrassahs in Khiva. It was built in the 19th century and is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. The madrassah is decorated with intricate carvings and beautiful mosaics.
9. Visit the Palvan Darvaza
The Palvan Darvaza is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. It was built in the 19th century and is an impressive gate decorated with intricate carvings and beautiful mosaics.
10. Explore the Chor Minor
The Chor Minor is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. It was built in the 19th century and is an impressive four-story building decorated with intricate carvings and beautiful mosaics.
These are just some of the many things to do in Ichan-Kala, Khiva Uzbekistan. This ancient city is full of stunning architecture, fascinating culture, and a rich history. Whether you are looking for a cultural experience or just want to admire the stunning architecture, Ichan-Kala is the perfect destination for you.