Kalta Minor Minaret — Attraction in Khiva

Khiva Kalta Minor Minaret.

It is difficult to imagine ancient Khiva without this iconic monument of oriental architecture — the Kalta Minor Minaret, which has become a true symbol of the city.

Its striking proportions and unique design immediately capture attention. The minaret dazzles with vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Though its current height is 29 meters, it was originally intended to be much taller, nearly three times its present size.

The minaret, along with the adjacent Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasah, was commissioned by Muhammad Amin Khan in the year 1852. His vision was to create one of the grandest architectural ensembles in the Islamic world, showcasing the power and prestige of the Khiva Khanate.

However, the khan's ambitious dream remained unfulfilled. In 1855, Muhammad Amin-Khan was killed, and construction of the towering minaret came to a halt. The structure, massive but incomplete, earned the name “Kalta Minor,” meaning “Short Minaret.”

While the madrasah was completed and remains one of the largest in Central Asia, its legacy has been somewhat eclipsed by the distinctive and mysterious charm of the unfinished minaret that stands beside it.

Kalta Minor is famous for its incompleteness, as well as its unique decorations. It is the only minaret covered entirely with...

The Kalta Minor is an unfinished minaret located near the west entrance to the Ichan Kala (old city). It was commissioned in 1851 by Mohammed Amin Khan, the ruler of Khiva, as an architectural marvel intended to rise over 70 meters—supposedly high enough to see Bukhara in the distance to the east, though this would have been impossible as the city is about 390 kilometers away (to actually see that far, the tower would have required a height of 12,000 meters—cruising altitude of a modern jet aircraft). Even so, a height of 70 meters would have made a formidable watchtower, as the Khan's men could have monitored the desert sands for 30 kilometers in all directions, alert for traders, pilgrims, bandits, and armies.

The Khan's untimely death while encamped on a Persian battlefield in 1855 put an end to the project when the minaret reached a mere 26 meters. However, even in unfinished form the structure is dazzling, covered from top to bottom with Khiva's signature blue-green tiles and various geometric patterns. A band of tiles near the top encircles the minaret with an inscription in nastaliq script, a calligraphic font commonly used for...

Kalta Minor Minaret – A Stunning Unfinished Masterpiece

Located in the heart of Khiva, Uzbekistan, the Kalta Minor Minaret is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Though unfinished, its vibrant turquoise tiles and massive base make it a truly breathtaking sight.

The minaret was intended to be the tallest in Central Asia, but construction was halted after the death of its patron, Muhammad Amin Khan, in 1855. Despite never being completed, its unique proportions and richly decorated façade draw visitors from around the world.

What makes Kalta Minor stand out is its vivid color and intricate tilework, which shimmer beautifully under the sunlight. It’s especially stunning at sunrise or sunset when the warm light enhances its rich hues.

While you can’t climb to the top, it’s still a must-see monument. Surrounded by the ancient city walls of Khiva, it offers great photo opportunities and a glimpse into the region’s fascinating...