Plizio Visual Lab

Kalta Minor

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

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Kalta Minor, which translates to 'Short Minaret,' is one of the most iconic symbols of Khiva, despite the fact that it was never finished. Construction began in 1851 under the reign of Mohammed Amin Khan, who intended to build the tallest minaret in the Islamic world. Following his death in battle in 1855, the project was abandoned, leaving the tower at its current height of 29 meters instead of the planned 70 to 80 meters. What makes Kalta Minor unique is that it is completely covered in magnificent blue, turquoise, and green glazed tiles, which is highly unusual for minaret decoration. This lavish ornamentation makes it one of the finest examples of Central Asian ceramic art. The massive base diameter of over 14 meters hints at the gigantic proportions originally envisioned for the structure. It stands adjacent to the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasah at the west gate of the old city. Despite its incompleteness, it is regarded as an aesthetic masterpiece of Khivan architecture.

Location: Uzbekistan
Top sights: Konya Ark · Minaret Chilli-Avliia · Dvorets Kubla Toza Beka
Nearby: Urgench (32 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-3	-1	8	15	24	29	31	29	22	13	4	-2
Rain mm	9	14	20	16	10	4	1	1	1	4	9	10

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The unfinished minaret is fully accessible as part of the Itchan Kala open-air museum in Khiva. You can walk right up to its base and admire the intricate turquoise tilework from all sides.

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Typical hours

The area is generally open from dawn until dusk, as it is a public square within the walled city. Specific opening hours for the entire complex are typically 8 AM to 6 PM in high season.

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Photography

Photography is encouraged, and the minaret is one of the most photogenic spots in Khiva. Try to capture the tiles in the morning light for the best colors.

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Time needed

Most visitors spend about 20 to 30 minutes here, taking photos and circling the base. Combined with the nearby madrasas, a half-day is easily filled.

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Combine with

Kalta Minor is just one highlight of the Itchan Kala, which includes many madrasas, mosques, and the Kunya-Ark fortress. A short walk also leads to the Tosh Hovli palace.

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Getting there

The minaret stands in the center of the old city, reachable on foot from any gate. Taxis from Khiva's modern town drop you at the West Gate, a five-minute walk away.

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Insider tip

For the best photos, visit early in the morning when the light hits the tiles directly and crowds are thin. The minaret looks especially beautiful at sunset.

Geography

Coordinates

41.37800, 60.35850

Facts

The base diameter of the tower is exactly 14.2 meters.
If completed, legends say one would have been able to see as far as Bukhara from the top.
It is the only minaret in Central Asia completely covered with glazed tiles.
Construction ceased after the Battle of Serakhs, where the Khan was killed.
The decoration consists of complex geometric patterns and Kufic inscriptions.
Legend states the architect fled to avoid being killed or forced to duplicate the work.