Islam Khoja Minaret
Islam Khoja Minaret in Khiva, Uzbekistan
The Islam Khoja Minaret is located in the center of Khiva, within the walls of Itchan Kala, the historic part of the city included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is part of the architectural ensemble with the Islam Khoja Madrasah and belongs to the late period in the history of the Khiva Khanate.
The structure was built in the early 20th century on the initiative of Islam Khoja, one of the most prominent statesmen of that time. In its composition and decoration, the minaret continues the traditions of Central Asian architecture: its tall shaft narrows upward and is adorned with horizontal bands of glazed tiles.
It is the tallest minaret in Khiva, so it is clearly visible from different points in Itchan Kala and often serves as a landmark while walking through the old city. Interest in it is connected not only with its height, but also with its expressive proportions, the combination of brickwork and colored ceramics, as well as its role in the city skyline.
For tourists, the minaret is of interest as part of Khiva’s well-preserved historic environment. A visit is usually combined with the neighboring madrasah and other monuments of Itchan Kala to gain a better understanding of the layout of the old city and the features of Khorezm architecture.
Islam Khoja Minaret on the map
Islam Khoja Minaret and the ascent to the upper tier
The structure preserves the appearance of late Khivan architecture.
Panorama of Itchan Kala from the height of a narrow spiral ascent
Inside the minaret there is a spiral staircase leading to the upper tier. The climb is quite narrow and steep, which should be taken into account by visitors with a fear of heights or limited mobility. From the top, there is a view over the dense development of Itchan Kala, the city walls, domes, courtyards, and minarets of old Khiva.
From the outside, you can see the characteristic decorative details: alternating bands of turquoise, blue, and white ceramics, brickwork, and the elongated proportions of the tower. Nearby stands the Islam Khoja Madrasah, a relatively small educational building with a traditional inner courtyard and a decorated portal, which forms a unified ensemble with the minaret.
During a walk nearby, it is also convenient to visit the Juma Mosque, Tash-Hauli Palace, and Kunya-Ark - they are located within the old city and are accessible on foot. Thanks to its location in the center of Khiva, the minaret is usually reached on foot from any part of Itchan Kala through the main gates of the historic quarter.
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