Khiva, Uzbekistan
Masterworks
Museum of incredible works of artistry. Now I know that is a calendar pattern on the carpet. For the caligraphy next to the ewer, I believe we were told those are song lyrics.
Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum
From what I was told the Imam sits in the mosque waiting. Then, for example, this bride and groom came in to get his blessing. Then the wedding party follows the bride and groom to their next stop.
I was curious why I kept seeing orange-colored tiles in the doorframe of mosques when most decorated tiles are blue. The guide shrugged and said they blend in better with the wood color. Ha. I thought there was going to be some symbolism.
Old Town
The walled city was an awesome experience. Unfortunately the number of tourists is growing exponentially. Of course I am part of the problem. But it is a shame. The commercialism, such as bringing crafts to sell that have nothing to do with Khiva, is a shift from even one year ago, according to our tour leader.
Here are snapshots from around town. It is truly photogenic.
Dinner and a song
Flight to Tashkent
That evening we took a domestic flight to Toshkent
