Khiva - Allakuli Khan Madrasa

The Allakuli Khan Madrasah in Khiva: a masterpiece of Khorezm architecture

Together with the neighbouring Allakuli Khan Caravanserai, the Allakuli Khan Madrasah is an outstanding element of the architectural ensemble of Ichan-Kala, a unique open-air museum that preserves the history of the Khans of Khiva with its buildings from the 14th century. This ensemble, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents the high art of Central Asian architecture and is an important historical and cultural resource for the region. It impressively conveys the urban heritage of the once mighty city of Khiva and illustrates the close links between religious and intellectual development in the region.

Historical background and origins of the madrasa
The Allakuli Khan Madrasa was built between 1833 and 1835 at the instigation of the Uzbek Khan Allakuli, who is considered one of the most important rulers of the Khanate of Khiva. Under his leadership, Khiva experienced a period of political and economic growth, during which the city became an important cultural centre in Central Asia. The medrese was built as one of the leading educational centres in the region and replaced an old, dilapidated medrese made of unbaked mud bricks. Allakuli-Khan wanted to transform Khiva into one of the most beautiful and prestigious urban centres in Asia, and the foundation of this new, monumental madrasah was a central part of this vision.

Architectural design
The Allakuli Khan madrasah was built on an artificial platform that raises the building about three metres above the level of neighbouring structures, such as the Hojamberdibiya madrasah. This gives the madrasah an imposing presence and makes it a striking landmark in the cityscape of Khiva. The architecture of the building reflects the traditions of Khorezm architecture, which are characterised by a distinct clarity and harmony. The medrese is not rectangular but trapezoidal in shape, which influences its arrangement and relationship to the surrounding urban space. The inner courtyard extends over four levels and is surrounded by two-storey wings that housed the students.

The complex comprises 99 hujras, small living cells for the students, which have a combination of doors and windows, with the lower wall areas decorated with burnt bricks in a square arrangement. Other wall surfaces were covered with ganch plaster, a traditional technique that enabled fine stucco work and is one of the typical features of Central Asian architecture.

The ground floor of the madrasa originally housed a public library, which was accessible to all students of the madrasas and was financed by income from the nearby caravanserai and bazaar. This library was an important part of the region’s education system and helped to establish Khiva as an intellectual centre.

Today, the Allakuli Khan Medrese is used as a museum and is dedicated to medical art and the history of the art of healing. Particularly noteworthy is the exhibition dedicated to the famous scholar and physician Abu Ali Ibn Sina, who became known in the Western world as Avicenna. Inside the building there is also a restored crafts centre that preserves traditional techniques and arts.

Decoration and richness of detail
The architecture of the medrese is characterised by a restrained but impressive design. The walls of the madrasa are smooth and ornamented, but the decoration is mainly focussed on the outer façade of the building. The main façade, which opens onto the courtyard of the neighbouring Hojamberdibiya madrasah, is decorated with typical majolica in the Khorezm style. The colours used, including deep black, bright white and various shades of blue, give the madrasah a lively and powerful appearance.

Particularly noteworthy are the ornate majolica tiles that cover almost all the vertical surfaces and semi-curved areas of the medrese. The patterns of the tiles vary depending on the wall surface, resulting in a dynamic, multi-faceted overall picture. This variation in decoration gives the building a fascinating depth and vibrancy that captivates the viewer.

Another architectural highlight is the monumental entrance portal of the madrasa, which is lined with ornate tympana and double arcades. The three quarter columns of the portal, which are decorated with filigree plant patterns and majolica, are particularly impressive. The southern portal stands out due to its extraordinary ornamentation, which consists of intertwined rings and is an outstanding example of the high level of craftsmanship of the Choresmian master builders.

Function and significance
The Allakuli Khan Madrasah is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also a symbol of Khiva’s intellectual and religious tradition. It represents the close connection between education, religion and art in the Khanate of Khiva and reflects the cultural heyday of the 19th century. During its time as a madrasa, it was a centre of knowledge and theological education, attracting students from various parts of Central Asia.

Today, the madrasa remains a fascinating example of Islamic architecture and an important cultural monument in the region. Its imposing architecture, ornate decoration and close connection to the history and culture of Khiva make it an indispensable part of the city’s heritage and an outstanding example of the architecture of the late Khorezmian Middle Ages.

The Allakuli Khan Medrese in Khiva is a true masterpiece of Central Asian architecture and an important cultural heritage. Its unique style, the use of majolica and the impressive symbiosis of function and aesthetics make it an outstanding example of Islamic architecture. The medrese stands as a living testimony to the intellectual and cultural flourishing of Khiva in the 19th century and remains one of the most important sights in the region.