Situated just two kilometers southwest of Khiva within a 0.5-hectare expanse, Kibla Tozabog stands proudly as one of the summer residences of the Khiva Khans from the Kungrat dynasty. Commissioned in 1897 by the visionary Khiva Khan Muhammad Rahimhan II, this opulent palace complex showcases the architectural prowess and cultural fusion characteristic of late 19th-century Central Asia.
Khiva Khan Muhammad Rahimhan II: Muhammad Rahimhan II, the eleventh ruler of Khiva from the Kungrat dynasty, ascended to power in 1864 and left an indelible mark on Khiva’s landscape. Renowned for his patronage of construction projects, including mosques, madrassas, and bathhouses, he remains a significant figure in the region’s history. His most enduring legacy is the Muhammad Rahimhan II Madrassah, the largest of its kind in Central Asia.
Construction of Kibla Tozabog: In 1897, Muhammad Rahimhan II initiated the construction of Kibla Tozabog, a summer residence that would later become a testament to his architectural vision. This palace complex spans three courtyards, each adorned with large two-story houses featuring intricately carved wooden columns. The design reflects a harmonious blend of Central Asian and European influences, a departure from the conventional oriental architecture of the time.
Architectural Features: Each courtyard within the palace complex boasts distinctive architectural features. The first palace houses a central basin in the form of a fountain, surrounded by meticulously landscaped flowerbeds. An audience hall, styled in a European fashion and adorned with large windows, deviates from the typical oriental architecture, showcasing the influence of external design elements.
Cultural Fusion and Russian Protectorate: The integration of half-European styles into Khivan architecture, witnessed in both Khiva and Bukhara during the late 19th century, is attributed to the Russian Empire’s protectorate over the Khanates. Kibla Tozabog, however, manages to preserve the rich traditions of the East while incorporating European architectural elements. The palace complex is enveloped by lush, shady gardens, providing respite from the scorching summer sun.
Construction and Ornamentation: Tozabog Palace stands as a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the time. Constructed entirely from burnt brick, the palace walls are adorned with intricately carved ganch and plated with gold. The doors for the halls and chambers were crafted by skilled artisans brought in from Russia, showcasing the international collaboration that contributed to the palace’s grandeur.
Kibla Tozabog, the Summer Residence of Khiva Emirs, remains one of the most captivating monuments in Khiva from the 19th century. A harmonious blend of architectural styles, cultural influences, and international craftsmanship, the palace stands as a living testament to the rich history and cultural exchange that shaped Central Asia during this period.