Muhammad Amin-khan Madrasah in Khiva
Muhammad Amin-khan Madrasah
The Muhammad Amin-khan Madrasah, situated in the western part of Itchan Kala, the historic inner city of Khiva, Uzbekistan, is one of the largest and most significant examples of Islamic architecture in Central Asia. Constructed between 1851 and 1855 under the rule of Muhammad Amin Khan, this impressive structure stands as a symbol of Khiva’s cultural, educational, and architectural heritage along the Silk Road.
Architectural Features
Covering an area of 72 by 60 meters, the Muhammad Amin-khan Madrasah features a square courtyard measuring 38 meters on each side. The two-story building contains 130 hujras (student cells), designed to accommodate up to 260 students. A unique aspect of this madrasah is that many cells consist of two rooms, offering a more spacious layout compared to traditional designs of the time. The façade is richly decorated with glazed brickwork in shades of blue, green, and yellow, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of Khorezm artisans. Above the main entrance, an Arabic inscription proclaims: "This beautiful building will stand to please the descendants forever."
Standing beside the madrasah is the Kalta-Minor Minaret, an unfinished yet iconic tower originally planned to become the tallest minaret in the Islamic world. Together, the madrasah and the minaret form a striking architectural ensemble that defines the skyline of Khiva’s Itchan Kala.
Historical Significance
Beyond serving as an educational institution, the Muhammad Amin-khan Madrasah played a vital role in the administrative life of the Khiva Khanate, housing the Highest Muslim Court. After the Soviet secularization policies, the madrasah was decommissioned in 1924 and repurposed as a prison during the 1930s. This period marked a significant transformation in the use of historical buildings in Khiva, reflecting the shifting political landscape of Central Asia.
Current Use and Preservation
Today, the Muhammad Amin-khan Madrasah operates as a hotel and exhibition space, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of Khiva’s past firsthand. Its designation as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Itchan Kala in 1990 underscores its global cultural significance and ensures ongoing preservation efforts. For travelers exploring Khiva, a visit to the Muhammad Amin-khan Madrasah offers a profound insight into the region’s architectural brilliance and historical legacy as a center of Islamic scholarship and governance.
The Muhammad Amin-khan Madrasah remains one of Khiva’s most enduring symbols, captivating all who visit with its impressive scale, vibrant tilework, and deep connections to the city’s rich history.