Khiva is divided into the inner town - Ishan-Kala where about 60 historical monuments are located and Dishan-Kala - the outer town where citizens of Khiva live and work. The inner town is surrounded by a high clay fence with four gates pointing out the four sides of the Universe.

The most ancient part of the city is the Kunya-Arch Fortress. This building was built in the 17th century. The high rack fence separates the fortress from housing estates. Inside the fortress are such constructions as a palace, arsenal, offices, the mint and a mosque.

Muhammad-Amin-Khon Madrassah (1851-1852) is the largest madrassah in Khiva. It includes an auditorium, cells, winter and summer mosques, and a library. Madrassah has five-cupola entrances and a square yard surrounded by two-story cells. The brick mosaic was used to decorate the facades, and intricate wood-carvings flatter the entrance door. In front of the madrassah is the minaret Kalta-Minor (1853-1855). Designed to be the highest minaret in Khiva, it did not reach its desired height, but stands tall and stately among beautiful old buildings and monuments.