In the News - Exploring The City Where Algebra Got Its Name

A Walk Back Through Time

With a history stretching back more than 2,000 years, the Uzbekistani city of Khiva is a World Heritage Site packed full of exquisite architecture from the times of the Silk Road. These wonders of Architecture include the remains of palaces, mosques and mausoleums. Surrounded by the Kyzylkum and Karakum deserts, the bustling oasis was the last stop for caravans on their way to Iran, carrying everything from paper, porcelain and spices to slaves, horses and fruit. Not only is history on display all around, but modern buildings have been harmoniously integrated, creating an urban composition that showcases Islamic architecture at its finest. 

Unique within Uzbekistan, Khiva is a complete fortified oasis in the desert. The inner city, known as the Itchan Kala, is protected by 33 ft high mud-brick walls, and this is where the most important monuments can be found. 

Unfinished Business
One of Khiva's most iconic buildings is the short and sweet Kalta Minor minaret, which is covered in glazed, patterned tiles and whose beauty hits you as soon as you enter through the West Gate. According to legend, it was built by Mohammed Amin Khan, the illustrious ruler of Khiva, who wanted to build a minaret so high he could see the city of Bukhara 249 miles to the southeast. Work started on the tower in 1851 but came to an abrupt halt after his death in 1855, leaving the 46 foot-wide and 85 foot-high tower as is. 

Mathematical inspiration
Central Asia was a world center of learning for centuries, and Khiva was no exception. Abū ‘Abdallāh Muḥammad ibn Mūsā Al-Khwārizm, a Persian scholar born around 780, is sometimes called the “grandfather of computer science” and is credited with popularizing the use of the decimal point. In fact, the word “algebra” comes from his algebraic mathematical treatise, called Hisab al-Jabr w'al-muqabala (The Compendious Book on Calculation by Completion and Balancing). His legacy can be seen in the statue erected outside the West Gate. 

Intricate Tile Work
Intricate tile work can be found on the spectacularly ornate Summer Mosque located inside the Kuhna Ark, the fortress residence of Khiva's rulers. The mosque is completely covered in locally made tiles believed to date back to 1838. Exquisite tile work can be found in many of the buildings around Khiva. It’s worth exploring the nooks and crannies of the city to see what hidden treasures you might discover.

Modern Life
Obviously this city isn't all stuck in the past, modern life and culture is buzzing. Many of Itchan Kala's prominent buildings have street sellers outside touting their wares. 

Stopping for a cup of tea is a wonderful way to absorb the history and beauty of the city. Tea is a huge part of Uzbekistani culture, and tea houses, known as chaikhanas, are to Uzbekistan like pubs are to Britain – numerous and popular. Being given tea (either green or black) is also a sign of hospitality; typically it is drunk without milk and sugar, and meals usually start and end with a cup. As you are strolling through the Itchan Kala, it will be hard to miss the Islām Khwaja madrasah and minaret. At 148 feet tall, it is the tallest structure in Khiva. 

Life Outside The Walls
Despite the beauty within the walls, it’s worth stepping outside to where the majority of the population lives. Get a taste of local life in the bustling market – the perfect place to meander and take in the sights and sounds of the city. 

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your business and leisure travel needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com

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