Khiva – Central Asian Fortress City

Khiva is one of Central Asia's best-preserved historic cities, appearing as a living museum amidst the desert landscape of the Khorezm region. The inner city, Itchan Kala, is surrounded by an impressive clay city wall and holds a dense concentration of minarets, madrasahs, mosques, and ancient palaces from the Khanate's golden age. The turquoise domes and slender minarets rise above narrow streets where time seems to stand still. Palaces like Tash-Hauli reveal lavish courtyards and decorated halls that reflect wealth and power. At sunset, the walls turn golden, transforming Khiva into an almost magical fortress city that tells the story of Silk Road trade, culture, and architecture.