The date of Khiva's foundation, lost in ancient days, has become a legend. Khiva reached its heyday in the Middle Ages having become one of the main towns and later capital of the powerful state of Khoresm. The town was destroyed and reconstructed more than once and the buildings of the old part were first constructed during the XVII - XIX centuries.
Khiva is called "the unique museum-town under the open sky". Mosques, madrasas, caravan - sarais, numerous minarets and palaces of former Khoresm lords render a lasting impression. In contrast to others of the Orient, the ancient architectural monuments are not spread out around the city but are concentrated on a small square in the central part of town. Khiva's architecture is striking due to its simplicity and monumental forms, unique and graceful fretted wooden columns, and the skillful plaiting design that decorates numerous administrative and religious buildings.
Khiva carpets, handstitched embroidery, ceramics and copper coining made by local masters that are kept and passed on from one generation to another are known all over the world.
