Islam Khoja Residence
Islam Khoja Residence in Khiva, Uzbekistan
The Islam Khoja Residence is located in Ichan Kala, the historic center of Khiva, surrounded by the main monuments of the old city. The name of Islam Khoja, an influential vizier at the court of Asfandiyar Khan, is associated with this place. Today, this name usually refers to the ensemble that includes the Islam Khoja madrasa and minaret, built at the beginning of the 20th century.
The madrasa is one of Khiva's relatively small educational buildings, but the ensemble stands out thanks to the minaret, which is considered the tallest in the city. Its height is about 56-57 meters, making it clearly visible in the panorama of Ichan Kala. Its vertical silhouette is emphasized by bands of glazed ceramic, characteristic of the local architectural tradition.
Visitors are drawn not only to the minaret itself, but also to the madrasa with its portal, domed rooms, and majolica decoration. The appearance of the complex clearly shows a combination of late Khivan architecture with early 20th-century features. This makes it possible to see how traditional forms continued to develop in the final decades of the khanate's existence.
For tourists, the Islam Khoja Residence is interesting for several reasons at once: as a prominent landmark in the old city, as a monument of the late Khiva period, and as a place associated with one of the important figures in the history of the khanate. A visit to the complex can easily be included in a walk through Ichan Kala, where many attractions are within walking distance of one another.
Islam Khoja Residence on the map
Khiva, East-Central Craft Quarter of Itchan Kala: Architectural and historical complexes
Ata-Darvaza Gate, Allakuli Khan Tim and Caravanserai, Itchan Kala Inner City, Said-bay Mosque-Madrasa
The Islam Khoja Residence and Its Minaret in Ichan Kala
The complex reflects late Khivan architecture and the history of Ichan Kala.
Khiva's tallest minaret and an intimate madrasa nearby
During a visit to the complex, attention is usually drawn to the minaret with its narrow, elongated silhouette and alternating bands of ceramic decoration. From the upper level, there are views of the adobe walls of Ichan Kala, the roofs of the old city, the domes, and the inner courtyards of the historic quarters. The ascent may involve steep stairs, so this is worth considering when planning your visit.
The madrasa next to the minaret is much more modest in size than many other educational buildings in Khiva, but this helps visitors appreciate its details without rushing. Notable features include the design of the entrance portal, the majolica cladding, and the interior spaces with domed ceilings. The complex gives an idea of how traditional construction techniques were preserved in Khiva during the late period.
Other famous monuments of Ichan Kala are located nearby, including the Juma Mosque, the Kunya Ark fortress, and the Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasa, so a visit can easily be combined with a walk through the old city. People usually come here on foot, as the ensemble is located inside the historic center of Khiva, which tourists enter through the gates of Ichan Kala.
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Photos of the complex
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