Tash Khauli Palace
The Tash-Hauli Palace is one of the most magnificent architectural monuments in Khiva and a masterpiece of royal architecture from the Khiva Khanate. Built in the 19th century during the reign of Allakuli Khan, the palace served as the main residence of the khans of Khiva and symbolized their political power and wealth.
The name “Tash-Hauli” means “Stone Courtyard,” reflecting the palace’s strong and monumental construction. The complex was designed as a luxurious royal residence containing reception halls, living quarters, courtyards, and the harem. Construction reportedly involved hundreds of craftsmen and artisans who created the palace’s elaborate decorative elements.
Architecturally, the palace is famous for its richly decorated interiors, carved wooden columns, colorful ceramic tiles, and finely detailed majolica ornamentation. The courtyards are surrounded by elegant iwans and rooms decorated with traditional Khorezm artistic patterns in shades of blue, white, and turquoise.
One of the most remarkable sections of the palace is the harem courtyard, where the khan’s wives and family members lived. The beautifully designed spaces reflect the high level of craftsmanship and artistic sophistication of Khiva during the 19th century.
Today, the Tash-Hauli Palace is one of the main attractions inside Itchan Kala and an important part of Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage. Visitors come to admire its architecture, explore its royal chambers, and experience the atmosphere of the former palace life of the Khivan rulers.