Juma Mosque

The mosque was originally built on this site in the 10th century and reconstructed in the 18th century. The columns that the mosque is famous for date back to the 10th–14th centuries. They feature intricate carvings — a true masterpiece of the old Khiva school. What makes this mosque unusual is that it lacks the architectural elements typically found in mosques — there фку no dome, no portals, nothing of the kind. It’s just walls, a floor, and a ceiling. I’ve read that the 10th‑century mosque looked exactly like this, and when it was rebuilt, the decision was made to preserve its historical appearance. The columns are truly impressive. There are 213 of them, and if you’re with a guide (or if you listen in on others’ tours), you’ll certainly get to see the oldest, most ancient ones — those dating back to the 10th century. The mosque is located right in the heart of the Old Town and is undoubtedly a must‑visit for any interested tourist.

Juma Mosque (Friday Mosque) is a 10th–18th century mosque in Khiva. It is one of the principal monuments of Itchan Kala. It stands in the middle of Itchan Kala, on the road connecting the west gate (Ota darvoza) and the east gate (Polvon darvoza). The mosque was first documented in the 10th century, but it was rebuilt in 1788.

As of August 2025 It’s under restoration and you can see small entrance area with 30 pillars only. It is covered by partitions that ruin the sacred atmosphere. The place must be beautiful, but considering the raise of the ticket price (250,000 sum for museums in Itchan Kala) my experience is really disappointing.

Juma Mosque – A Forest of Pillars in the Heart of Khiva. Tucked deep within the walls of Ichan Kala, the Juma Mosque (Friday Mosque) is one of Khiva’s most atmospheric and unique monuments. Originally founded in the 10th century and rebuilt in its current form in 1788–89, it stands out for its hypostyle hall, supported by 213 wooden columns—a layout rarely seen in Central Asian architecture. Each column has its own character, many salvaged from earlier structures, with some dating back as far as the 10th or 11th century. Intricate carvings, geometric patterns, and Arabic inscriptions reveal a rich mix of eras and artistic traditions. The open-plan interior allows light to filter in from ceiling openings, creating an otherworldly, almost mystical atmosphere. Unlike typical mosques with domes and minarets, Juma Mosque prioritizes simplicity and serenity. It served as the main place of Friday prayer for the people of Khiva and continues to awe visitors with its timeless spiritual aura. Today, the Juma Mosque is a must-visit for those who want to experience the spiritual and artistic heritage of Khiva. Visitors often say it’s not just a building, but an atmosphere — quiet, ancient, and profoundly moving. Just outside stands the Juma Minaret, also known as the Jummi Minaret.

There are over 200 carved columns in this mosque and they are donated by each families in the community, the artistic and rich families made there’s fanciful and the poorer ones just donated the column without any decoration. Seems fair to me. Imagine some of these columns being here since the 10th century 😄👍

One of the most important attractions in Khiva.

A unique Mosque with many old columns the Juma Mosque of Itchan Kala. This was my 2nd time here and the 1st time I could really feel the Mosque soul. Excellent place to stay in a far corner where few people and sit for a while in a peace quite atmosphere. Must visit spot of Itchan Kala.

A very unique mosque with carved wooden pillars holding up the roof. It's simpler than the tiled monuments outside but the quiet atmosphere makes it special and worth visiting.