The Arab Muhammad-khan Madrasah stands as one of Khiva’s oldest and most revered architectural marvels, nestled in the heart of the historic Ichan-Kala alongside the Muhammad Aminkhan Madrasah. Commissioned by the Shaybanid ruler Arab-Muhammadhan, it was built to commemorate Khiva’s elevation to the capital of the Khorezm State, succeeding Urgench.
Arab Muhammad-khan, a prominent figure in Khorezmian history, reigned from 1603 to 1621, during which Khiva flourished under his leadership. He initiated extensive urban development projects, commissioning the construction of numerous madrasahs, mosques, and civic structures that enhanced the city’s beauty and stature, rivaling Bukhara and Samarkand in Central Asia.
In 1616, Arab-Muhammad ordered the construction of the madrasah on the site of a smaller structure originally built by a notable female resident of Khiva. This one-story brick edifice featured a rectangular layout, adorned with a traditional Quranic inscription on its entrance portal. Small minarets adorned the corners, complementing the khujdrs (student cells) and a mosque intended for prayer.
Climb Minaret of Islam-Khoja
Explore Ichan-Kala Fortress
Admire Kalta-Minor Minaret
Enjoy traditional Uzbek architecture
Visit local craft workshops