Tach Khaouli, 19th century royal palace in Khiva, Uzbekistan
Tach Khaouli is a 19th century royal residence in Khiva containing over 150 rooms arranged around nine courtyards with elaborate ceramic tile work. The structure features soaring ceilings, decorative wall patterns, and varied spatial layouts designed for different functions throughout the complex.
Khan Allakuli commissioned the palace between 1832 and 1841 as a new seat of government to replace an older fortress complex. The construction reflected the Khan's desire to establish a grander symbol of power in the region.
The palace served as the center of royal authority where important decisions were made and foreign delegations were received. Visitors can walk through the different zones and see how the ruling family conducted official business and daily routines.
The site is open to visitors daily and welcomes guests to walk through its decorated rooms and explore the layout of different functional areas. Climbing to the rooftop allows a full view of the surrounding city, while indoor spaces are accessible for close observation of the tilework and design.
A hidden passage connects the harem section to the administrative offices, allowing the Khan to move between areas unseen by others. This corridor remains visible to visitors and demonstrates how the ruler maintained privacy while staying accessible to different parts of the complex.
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