About
The Juma Mosque, also known as the Friday Mosque, stands in Itchan Kala, the walled inner town of Khiva in the Khorezm Region of Uzbekistan. It is a 10th-century mosque and one of the oldest mosques in Central Asia, and it makes a rewarding stop for anyone interested in the region's religious and architectural past.
What to look for
The mosque is best known for its interior. Its roof is held up by 213 wooden columns, and walking among them gives a sense of the building's unusual character. Each column differs in its carving and form, so take time to look closely rather than passing quickly through the hall. The architectural features of the mosque set it apart from many other monuments in the area.
Planning your visit
- Location: Itchan Kala, Khiva, Khorezm Region, Uzbekistan
- Setting: inside the old walled town, so it is easy to combine with other sights nearby
- Visit style: a slow, reflective look at an ancient interior, suited to architecture lovers and history-minded travellers
Because the mosque sits within Itchan Kala, a visit fits naturally into a wider wander through the old town's lanes and monuments. Allow time to look around the interior at your own pace, and check locally before you go for any current arrangements.
