Kunya-Ark

Kunya-Ark, the "old citadel", was the fortified residence of the Khiva khans, set against the western wall of the inner town. It grew from the late 17th century onwards and was extended and rebuilt in the 19th century, so it is a cluster of courtyards rather than a single building.

The summer mosque is the highlight: an open, tall iwan lined with blue and white tiles and carried on a painted wooden ceiling. Nearby are the reception courtyard where the khan received envoys, the old mint with displays of coins and paper money, and rooms for the guard and the harem.

Climb the Akshikh Bobo bastion, the oldest part of the citadel, for a wide view over Itchan Kala, with Kalta Minor in the foreground.