Ota darvoza, City gate in Itchan Kala, Khiva, Uzbekistan
Ota Darvoza is a city gate in old Khiva featuring two prominent domes that crown its rectangular structure measuring approximately 17 by 15 meters. Inside, the space contains market stalls and additional rooms that once served different functions.
The gate was built between 1828 and 1829 under a local ruler and served as a key point for city control and administration. Watchtowers and tax collection chambers were integrated into its design.
The gate displays Arabic religious texts on its doors that mark it as a sacred passage into the old city. These inscriptions remain visible to anyone passing through today.
The gate is accessible and functions as an active marketplace where visitors can walk through and explore the interior spaces. It is best visited during daylight hours when light highlights the architectural details inside.
Inside the structure, a spiral staircase and several domed rooms reveal how thoughtfully this 1800s construction was planned. This hidden complexity is often missed on a first visit.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
