Kuhna Ark

Khiva Kuhna Ark Fortress. Kuhna Ark, meaning "Old Fortress," is a historic citadel located in the heart of Itchan Kala, the walled inner city of Khiva, Uzbekistan. Originally built in the 12th century and expanded significantly in the 17th century by the khans of Khiva, Kuhna Ark served as the official residence and administrative center of Khiva's rulers. The fortress once functioned as a self-contained royal town within the city, containing not only the khan’s residence but also a mosque, mint, stables, arsenal, and reception halls. One of its most striking features is the beautifully tiled Summer Mosque, with its delicate blue and white faience decorations and intricately carved wooden columns. The elegant throne room and viewing platform offer panoramic views of Khiva’s skyline and the surrounding desert landscape. Kuhna Ark has been carefully restored and preserved as part of the UNESCO-listed Itchan Kala. Visitors walking through its arched gates are transported into a world of desert dynasties and Silk Road legacies. Every wall and courtyard reflects the grandeur of Central Asian Islamic architecture and the everyday life of the royal court. A visit to the fortress is a journey back in time—an essential stop for anyone exploring the wonders of Khiva and Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage

To the left of the Ata Darvaza stands the Ko'hna Ark (or Konye Ark) since the 17th century, the citadel where the khan could retreat in case of a possible siege. In 1806 the citadel was expanded to its current size, and from 1840, after the construction of the Toshhovli Palace, the Konye ("Old") Ark functioned mainly as a military stronghold that remained in use until the beginning of the 20th century. The citadel grounds are divided into four courtyards around which are located all the rooms such as a mosque, the mint, the audience hall (the kurnish-khana), and the harem. From the tower in the city wall one has a beautiful view over Khiva.

Great view! For anyone wondering, it's only 53 steps to get to the view point (give or take a few). Worth the visit, especially at night. My girlfriend said it's 5 stars, I only thought 4, so we settled on 5.

another beautiful and breathtaking spot of the Itchan Qala. Very interesting and incredible,must visit I would say

Tried to go to the front door. To buy a ticket I need to go OUTSIDE the city. So we walk to the city gate and ask where we can buy a ticket. It took 5 minutes to explain that we want a ticket JUST for the citadel. Eventually we are pointed to the ticket office. Finally we get to the ticket office where there is no queue, with 5 people inside eating food and basically ignoring us. We decided to skip the visit. Interesting way of trying to NOT make money. Just sell the ticket at the gate. How hard can it be?

The Kuhna Ark was our next stop, built next to the Western Gate this was the fortress of the Emirs, the equivilant to a European castle keep. Originally built in the twelth century it contained stables, harem, throne room, barracks and a mint. A lot of the interior looked like it was still being excavated but there were some beautifully decorated audience rooms with incredible ceilings and doors. There were also steps that led to the watchtower which gave views over the city walls, a popular spot at sunset!

Really cool place. The museum and the terrace with the views, both are incredible

Just one, but probably the most important complex in Khiva as this Kuhna Ark or Old Ark, is a fortified citadel located at the heart of Khiva, nestled against the western ramparts of the Ichan Kala. It was conceived as a self-contained universe for the exclusive use of the ruler, his harem, advisors, servants, and extended family. It was first constructed by Arang Khan in the 17th century and as usual it was razed and rebuilt during various reigns. It takes ages to explore the walls and the various important buildings within.