Kibla Tozabog

The construction of the Kibla Tozabog summer residence began in 1897. The palace complex consists of three courtyards of varying sizes. Each courtyard features large two-story houses adorned with carved wooden columns. These courtyards also contain spacious aivans with intricately carved handrails and legs, where the khan and his attendants would relax during the hot summer days. The palace complex is encircled by outbuildings constructed along its perimeter.

Each palace within the residence is renowned for its unique architectural features. The first palace’s centerpiece is a basin shaped like a fountain, surrounded by flowerbeds. Additionally, there is an audience hall decorated in a European style, notable for its large windows, which are uncommon in traditional oriental architecture.

The other two courtyards house the khan’s personal chambers, his harems, as well as winter and summer mosques, a madrasah, stables, and various household structures. These buildings exhibit a blend of European and traditional architectural styles, reflecting the influence of the Russian Empire, which had a protectorate over the Khiva and Bukhara khanates during the late 19th century. Despite the European influences, the architecture of the Kibla Tozabog Palace retains the best traditions of the East, and the palace is surrounded by beautiful shady gardens that provide coolness on hot days.

The Tozabog Palace was constructed entirely from burnt brick. The walls of the residence are decorated with carved ganch and gilded. The doors for the halls and chambers were specially ordered from master craftsmen in Russia. The Kibla Tozabog Palace, the summer residence of the Khiva Emirs, stands as one of the most beautiful monuments in Khiva from the 19th century.