Allakuli Khan Madrasa

"Abdulla Khan Madrassa – A Quiet Jewel of Ichan Kala.

Tucked within the labyrinthine alleys of Ichan Kala, the Abdulla Khan Madrassa may not be as grand as some of Khiva’s larger complexes, but it offers a tranquil and deeply atmospheric glimpse into the city’s religious heritage. Constructed in the mid-19th century, during the reign of Abdulla Khan, this small yet elegant madrassa was built to serve as a center for Islamic education and scholarship.

The madrassa features a traditional Central Asian layout, with a central courtyard surrounded by student cells (hujras) and teaching spaces. Its modest brick façade is framed by decorative tilework, arched doorways, and subtle geometric designs. Unlike the monumental madrassas of Bukhara or Samarkand, Abdulla Khan’s structure emphasizes simplicity, proportion, and inner serenity.

Though smaller in scale, the madrassa once played a vital role in Khiva’s religious education system, providing instruction in the Qur’an, law, and Arabic grammar. Its compact design helped foster a close-knit academic community, and it stands as a symbol of the khanate's commitment to spiritual and scholarly life.

Today, the Abdulla Khan Madrassa is partially restored and often houses small exhibitions or artisan workshops. For visitors seeking a peaceful and authentic experience, this madrassa offers a quiet moment to reflect on Khiva’s rich intellectual past."

Lefteris Stamatelatos

"Madrassah of Allakuli Khan was built in the middle of the XIX century. It is considered the richest monument in its decoration. Majolica of Khorezmian type in black, white and blue colors prevails here, images in black contours is in the tambourines and framed double arcade of columns and three-quarters of the portal.

Madrasah has a name of an initiator of its construction, the Khiva ruler Allakuli Khan. In several khujdras on the first floor there was the city library founded by Allakuli Khan. The library provide books for all students of Khiva Madrasah."

Matkarim Matkarimov

"This pretty madrasah, with attractive blue tile work, is now a restaurant. You can still admire it from outside, both by day and by night when it is spectacularly lit up."

David Smith