The city- oasis Khiva ( nearly 50 thousans inhabitants) is located in the lower valley of  Amu-Darya in Khoresm region. The city is devided into two parts: the outer part is called Dishan-Kala, the inner part – Ichan-Kala. The population  is only 3 thousand  but it is here where the most important and   beautiful monuments are situated .

   Like Bukhara Khiva celebrated its 2500 years jubilee in September of 1997. First there were  few cabins  which nomads built  around the well found in the desert. Gradually not large settlement turned into a city which got more and more economic and politic significancy, as together with  Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara Khiva was also situated on one of the most important crossroads of the Great Silk Road.

   The specific political importance Khiva got in the 16^th century, when it became the capital of the newly founded Khiva Khanate.In 1920 the last Khiva Khan was   overthrowned, after that the new period was started in the history of the city. Nowadays Khiva is known as the most interesting cty in the historical and cultural plans.  Visit to Ichan Kala  increases your inner impression that all Shaherezada’s stories took place here. Ichan Kala   fascinates you and makes you to believe that Shaherezada has just  passed by and disappeared   in the nearest by-street. You have to see Ichan Kala where inspite of the small square you can wonder  hours and descover real miracles for yourself.  Without fail visit Kunya Ark Fortress, Tash- Khauly Palace of Khan,  Mosque Juma, Mausoleum  of the city patron pahlavan Makhmud.

 

The city- oasis Khiva