Kalta Minor, Islamic minaret in Khiva, Uzbekistan
Kalta Minor is a brick minaret in Khiva that rises 29 meters from the ground with a base diameter of about 14 meters. The entire structure is covered in blue and white glazed tiles that give it a shiny appearance.
Construction of the minaret began in 1852 under Muhammad Amin Khan's rule but was interrupted in 1855 when Khan died during a military campaign. Since then, the structure has remained in this incomplete state.
The surface displays geometric patterns and verses by poet Muhammad Riza Ogahi in turquoise, green, and white. This decoration makes the tower a special place of artistic expression for people in Khiva.
An internal wooden staircase allows visitors to climb to different levels, though it undergoes regular maintenance to ensure safety. Comfortable shoes are recommended as the stairwell is steep and narrow.
The tower was built to only about one-third of its planned height of 70 meters and would have been the tallest Islamic tower of its time. Its incomplete state makes it an unexpected monument that tells the story of its interruption.
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