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Uzbekistan

The tile work is spectacular on the building.

The Old Palace or The Ark is said to be the oldest structure in Khiva, originating from the 12th century. Kunya-Ark ‘old fortress’ was Khiva rulers’ residence and citadel. The reception courtyard and throne room where the emir or khan would receive visitors, the other the private mosque. Interestingly, the nomadic tradition is reflected in the way the khan's courtyard has a raised stone dais, on which a grand yurt would be erected,

Kurinish-khona, reception hall, and was used for official receptions.

The city of Khiva which celebrated its 2,500th birthday 15 years ago can itself be called a large Uzbekistan sight. It was not just an individual Khiva monument that was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1990 but the whole Ichan-Kala - ‘inner town’, the historical part of the city - with the suburb Dishan-Kala, which both have been Khiva for centuries. Among the numerous architectural monuments in Ichan-Kala stands out Kyunya-Ark Fortress - the heart of the ‘inner town’.

The Kalta Minor Minaret.. made up of blue green tiles in dazzling patters. This minaret can be seen almost anywhere in the old city. A landmark.

Locals walking to a wedding about to take place in a few minutes across gardens.

Shopping for a fur hat... this is the place for a unique hat.

Aziz picking out some local bread for us to sample.

Local woodworking.

Explaining to us how to use this item that he makes. Tale about clever.

Oven for baking the local bread

Wedding Party

Narrow walking streets inside the walled city.

During our travels in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan we ran into a number of couples that were getting married on the same day we were in the countries. Remember 95% of all the couples are arranged marriages.

Locals also touring the old walled city.

The people of Central Asia, including the Uzbek's, are friendly and very hospitable.

Friday Mosque or Juma Mosque. The mosque was first mentioned in the 10th century, but the current building was rebuilt in 1788. The building is a brick floor with a flat roof, with 212 wooden columns in 17 rows. The size of the building is 165 feet by 138 feet and its minaret is 126 feet high.

Another couple about to be married. The brides rent the dresses they wear.

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