Kalta Minor Minaret

Kalta Minor Minaret – Khiva, Uzbekistan

Overview

The Kalta Minor Minaret is one of Khiva’s most striking landmarks and a symbol of the walled city of Itchan Kala, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its short, squat shape and dazzling turquoise tiles, Kalta Minor was originally intended to be the tallest minaret in Central Asia. Construction began in 1851 under Muhammad Amin Khan, but the project was abandoned after his death in 1855, leaving the minaret unfinished. Despite its incomplete form, Kalta Minor is beloved for its bold design and vibrant colors, and it remains a centerpiece of Khiva’s old town. Visitors are drawn to its photogenic beauty, rich history, and the legends that surround it.

Why Visit

• Marvel at Khiva’s most colorful and photogenic landmark
• Learn the fascinating story of a minaret that was never completed
• Admire exquisite turquoise and green tilework unique in Central Asia
• Experience one of the highlights of Itchan Kala, Khiva’s UNESCO-listed inner city
• Capture unforgettable photos, especially at sunrise and sunset

Highlights

• Striking Design: Kalta Minor stands at about 29 meters tall, but its massive base suggests it was meant to rise over 70 meters
• Tilework: The minaret is covered in intricate turquoise, green, and blue glazed tiles that shimmer in the desert sun
• Unfinished History: Abandoned mid-construction, it remains a unique reminder of Khiva’s shifting fortunes in the 19th century
• Legends: Stories claim the khan wanted it to be so tall that Bukhara could be seen from its summit
• Photographic Icon: The minaret is one of the most photographed monuments in Uzbekistan

History & Cultural Significance

Construction of Kalta Minor began in 1851 under the rule of Muhammad Amin Khan, who envisioned it as the tallest minaret in Central Asia, towering above 70 meters. Its massive base — 14.5 meters in diameter — supports this ambition. However, when the khan died in battle in 1855, the project was abruptly halted. The unfinished structure, rising only 29 meters, has since become a symbol of Khiva’s history and resilience. The name “Kalta Minor” translates to “Short Minaret,” reflecting its unusual proportions. Today, it embodies both ambition and imperfection, offering a rare glimpse into the city’s architectural past and political dynamics of the 19th century.

Typical Costs & Tickets

Entry to Kalta Minor Minaret is included in the general Itchan Kala city ticket, which typically costs around 100,000–150,000 UZS ($8–$12 USD) per person. This pass grants access to many of Khiva’s key attractions, including mosques, madrasas, and museums. Individual tickets may sometimes be available for select buildings, but most visitors opt for the city pass to explore freely.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to see Kalta Minor is during spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when the desert weather is pleasant. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical, as the minaret’s tiles reflect soft golden and pink hues. Visiting early in the morning also provides fewer crowds, making it easier to photograph and appreciate the structure’s detail.

Nearby Experiences

Located near the west gate of Itchan Kala, Kalta Minor is surrounded by some of Khiva’s most important landmarks. Directly next to it stands the Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasa, once the largest madrasa in Central Asia. Other nearby highlights include the Kunya-Ark Citadel, the Juma Mosque with its forest of carved wooden columns, and the Tash Khauli Palace. Visitors can also explore bustling bazaars, enjoy traditional Uzbek cuisine at local restaurants, and shop for handicrafts such as ceramics and embroidery within the old city walls.

Travel Tips

• Purchase the Itchan Kala city pass to explore multiple monuments at one price
• Arrive early in the morning for the best light and fewer tourists
• Bring a camera — Kalta Minor is one of the most photographed spots in Uzbekistan
• Spend time wandering around the minaret to appreciate the tilework up close
• Stay within the walls of Itchan Kala for easy access to Khiva’s monuments

Fun Facts & Local Legends

• The minaret was designed to be the tallest in Central Asia, but it was left unfinished at less than half its intended height
• Its unusual squat shape makes it one of the most recognizable monuments on the Silk Road
• Legends say the khan planned it so tall that even Bukhara could be seen from its top
• Despite being unfinished, Kalta Minor remains the most colorful minaret in Uzbekistan