Golden sand colored walls, stunning turquoise domes and winding labyrinthine streets... Welcome to Khiva! Located in the northwest of Uzbekistan and surrounded by the vast Kyzylkum and Karakum deserts, Khiva was once an oasis on the ancient Silk Road. The heart of the city, Itchan Kala, is an inner fortress that feels like a living museum, renowned for its preserved Islamic architecture, artisan workshops and deep historical roots.

One thing that makes Khiva unique is its architecture. Enclosed by walls that glow like gold in the sunlight, the city is a maze of madrasas, mosques and minarets adorned with intricate blue and green majolica tiles. This dedication to preserving its heritage makes walking through Khiva feel like stepping directly into the pages of a book.

Khiva is also rich in folklore. According to local legend, the city was founded by Shem, the son of Noah. As the story goes, he was wandering the desert when he discovered a well with sweet, cool water. As people gathered to drink, they exclaimed "khei-vak!" (sweet water), giving the city its name. The ancient Kheivak well can still be found today in the courtyard of a traditional house in the old city, keeping the legend alive.

Alongside its rich folklore, the region of Khwarazm (where Khiva is located) has been home to brilliant minds who shaped world history. One of the most famous is the 9th century mathematician and astronomer Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi. His work introduced the Hindu-Arabic numeral system to the West, and he is widely celebrated as the father of algebra. In fact, the very word "algorithm" is derived from his name!

One of Khiva's most recognizable landmarks is the Kalta Minor (Short Minaret). Completely covered in blue and green tiles, its design was originally intended to be the tallest minaret in the Islamic world. Although construction stopped unexpectedly in the 19th century leaving it unfinished, its wide blue base remains one of the city's most beloved and photographed attractions.

No visit to Uzbekistan would be complete without experiencing the warmth of its hospitality. Khiva’s bazaars and traditional chaikhanas (teahouses) offer a glimpse into local life. Drinking freshly brewed green tea while relaxing on a tapchan (traditional raised seating) under shaded trees is a cherished daily ritual. These spaces serve as places to relax, socialise and enjoy the city's atmosphere.

Although Khiva is known for its desert days, the summer evenings bring a lively energy as the heat breaks. When the sun sets, the ancient city walls are bathed in a magical glow. One of Khiva's most celebrated cultural events is the Magic of Dance (Raqs Sehri) festival. Held within the walls of Itchan Kala, the festival brings the city alive with traditional music, silk costumes and folk performances, bringing communities together in a celebration of Central Asian artistry.

- Khiva is an oasis city in Uzbekistan and a crucial stop on the ancient Silk Road.

- The walled inner city, Itchan Kala, is a preserved living museum of blue tile architecture.

- Local folklore attributes the city's founding to Shem, son of Noah, who dug the legendary Kheivak well.

- The surrounding region is the birthplace of al-Khwarizmi, the renowned mathematician known as the "father of algebra."

- Landmarks like the unfinished Kalta Minor highlight Khiva's unique architecture.

- Evening festivals like the Magic of Dance fill the ancient streets with vibrant music, art and celebrations.

With that, it's time to continue our Summer Party Tour. We hope you enjoyed exploring Khiva and discovering what makes Uzbekistan's ancient oasis so special!