Uzbekistan World Heritage Site “Itchan Kala” – Time‑Slip into Medieval Islam!

Itchan Kala, the walled old town of Khiva—the holy city of Uzbekistan—was the very first site in Uzbekistan inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Surrounded by massive ramparts, Itchan Kala once thrived as an oasis city and key Silk Road hub. Step inside its walls, and you’ll feel transported into the heart of medieval Islamic civilization. Here’s a closer look at this evocative World Heritage site.

What Is Itchan Kala?

Khiva, in northwestern Uzbekistan, was the capital of the Khiva Khanate founded in the 16th century—and a revered Islamic holy city. Within its defensive walls arose the district known today as Itchan Kala.

While many Central and West Asian cities once had similar walled cores, most were destroyed in wars. Itchan Kala alone remains largely intact, a veritable treasure trove of historical architecture:

20 mosques and 20 madrasas (Islamic schools), 6 minarets, and Over 50 palaces, mausoleums, and other monuments. Designated a “museum city” in 1969 and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1990, Itchan Kala offers an unrivaled glimpse into medieval Islamic urban life.

How to Get to Itchan Kala

Since Khiva (where Itchan Kala is located) is about 1,000 km from the capital Tashkent, flying is recommended. It’s about a 2‑hour flight from Tashkent Airport to Urgench International Airport. From Urgench Airport to Khiva, it’s about a one‑hour bus or taxi ride.

You can also take an overnight train. It’s about an 18‑hour journey from Tashkent Station to Urgench Station. From Urgench Station to Khiva, it’s about a 30‑minute bus or taxi ride.

Highlight ①: Kalta Minor Minaret

The Kalta Minor is Itchan Kala’s most iconic landmark. As you enter through the West Gate, the squat, vividly blue‑tiled minaret rises immediately on your right.

Originally intended in 1852 to reach 109 meters, construction halted at just 26 meters—most likely upon the death of Khan Amin Khan.

Today, its unfinished but striking form is a testament to 19th‑century ambition.

Highlight ②: Koʻhna Ark (Old Fortress)

Facing the Kalta Minor, the Koʻhna Ark—or “Old Palace”—dates to the 17th century.

This fortified complex once housed the khan’s residence, council chamber, armory, and mint—entirely self‑contained like a mini‑city. Now a museum, its life‑sized figures recreate courtly scenes of as they once were.

Climb to the Ak Sheikh Baba platform (the old lookout) for sweeping panoramas of both Itchan Kala and Khiva beyond.

Highlight ③: Djuma Mosque

Djuma Mosque—literally “Friday Mosque”—is where Muslims gather for the main weekly prayer. Its vast 55 × 46 m prayer hall is supported by 212 wooden columns, each carved with a unique design.

Founded in the 10th century and restored repeatedly through the centuries, the current interior dates to around the 18th century. This atmospheric building lies at the very heart of Itchan Kala and is not to be missed.

◎ Summary of UNESCO 「Itchan Kala」 in Uzbekistan

Itchan Kala brims with medieval architecture that makes you feel as if you’ve wandered into an Islamic fairy tale. If your travels bring you to Uzbekistan, don’t miss the chance to step through its ancient walls and experience the living history of Itchan Kala.