Islam Khodja Minaret and Madrasa
Xorazm
The Islam Khodja Minaret and Madrasa form a remarkable architectural monument located in the heart of Itchan Kala, Khiva, Uzbekistan. Built between 1908 and 1910 by Islam Khodja, the prime minister and father-in-law of Khiva's ruler Isfandiyar Khan, this complex represents a pinnacle of Islamic architecture in the region. The two-story madrasa comprises 42 rooms surrounding a spacious courtyard, with a large domed mosque occupying its southwestern side. The mosque's interior is notable for its silk and ganchkori ornamentation, especially around the dome and mihrab. The minaret, standing at 56.6 meters, is the tallest tower in Khiva and features a tapering cylindrical form decorated with blue and green tile patterns. Its prominence allows it to be seen from nearly all parts of the city. The complex also includes a veranda on the second floor and a special mosque adjacent to the madrasa entrance. Today, the madrasa houses the "Khorazm Applied Art" museum, which displays wooden sculptures, metalwork, carpets, ancient Arabic inscriptions, coins, and everyday objects, preserving the rich cultural heritage of the region. The construction involved notable architects and artists such as Khudoibergan Haji, Eshmuhammad Khudoiberdiyev, and Bolta Voisov. Islam Khodja himself contributed significant land to establish the madrasa, reflecting his dedication to the cultural and urban development of Khiva.
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Tip: Visit during the cooler morning hours to comfortably explore the complex and admire the intricate tilework in natural light. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students and groups. The site is accessible by local transport within Khiva city. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the historical and artistic significance of the madrasa and minaret.
Interesting facts
- •The Islam Khodja Minaret is the tallest tower in Khiva, standing at 56.6 meters.
- •The madrasa includes a large domed mosque decorated with silk and ganchkori ornaments, typical of Khiva's architectural school.
- •Islam Khodja personally allocated 14,451 acres of land to fund the establishment of the madrasa.
- •The minaret's blue and green tile belts make it a distinctive landmark visible from nearly all parts of Khiva.
History
Construction of the Islam Khodja Madrasa and Minaret began in 1908 and was completed by 1910 under the direction of Islam Khodja, a key political figure in Khiva.
Islam Khodja was instrumental in modernizing Khiva, contributing to infrastructure such as hospitals, telegraph services, and bridges.
The madrasa originally accommodated 50 students studying Islamic sciences and consisted of 42 rooms surrounding a courtyard.
Over time, the complex has been preserved as a significant cultural monument and now functions as a museum showcasing regional applied arts.
Place Guide
Minaret1908-1910
The tallest tower in Khiva at 56.6 meters, featuring a tapering cylindrical shape decorated with blue and green glazed tile patterns. It offers panoramic views of the city and serves as a prominent landmark visible from most parts of Khiva.
Madrasa Courtyard and Rooms1908-1910
A spacious courtyard measuring 23 by 20 meters is surrounded by 42 small one-story rooms used historically for student accommodation and study. The courtyard is simple, with no wall decorations, but features a veranda on the second floor overlooking the space.
Domed Mosque1908-1910
Occupying the entire southwestern side of the madrasa, this large domed mosque features an interior decorated with intricate silk and ganchkori patterns, especially around the mihrab. The dome's design reflects the creative school of Khiva masters.
Khorazm Applied Art Museum
Housed within the madrasa, this museum exhibits a collection of wooden sculptures, metal objects, carpets, stones with ancient Arabic inscriptions, coins, and everyday artifacts, preserving the cultural heritage of the Khorezm region.
Contact
Phone: 62 375 31 69
