Ancient fortresses of the Kyzylkum desert from Khiva

Go in search of grandiose and mysterious structures in the Kyzylku desert n

Many centuries ago, unknown architects erected impregnable fortresses on the territory of Khorezm. And to this day, these powerful buildings surprise both scientists and travelers. The territory of Khorezm is often called “Central Asian Ancient Egypt” – only there will be no crowds of tourists, so you calmly explore the mysterious place in the middle of the desert and feel its atmosphere.

There are not many places in the world where such a number of monuments of ancient architecture are concentrated on a relatively small territory. There are more than a dozen fortresses here alone! How did the ancient builders manage to build all these great buildings? Why have many buildings survived to this day? Most of them are 2,000 years old.

Excursion plan

• The settlement of Ayaz-Kala (4-3 centuries BC) is one of the most picturesque monuments of Karakalpakstan. In fact, there is not one, but three fortresses clustered around the hill. You will see that the settlement was not in vain given the name, which translated from Turkic means “fortress in the wind”. Blown by the strongest winds, this fortress for many centuries stands proudly and impregnable, and you will feel the power of the place.
• Toprak-kala, or "Earth City". Excavations of this castle became a sensation: it turned out that in the 3rd century the city was the progressive capital of Ancient Khorezm, ancient culture flourished on this land, and the streets and rooms were so well designed that Toprak-Kala can be called the kingdom of geometry. You will see its ruins and learn how life was arranged here.
• Kyzyl-Kala is an ancient structure that was built as a defensive fortress and was part of a chain of Khorezmian fortifications created to protect the northeastern border of ancient Khorezm. The walls of the fortress were so powerful - 8 m thick - that even using wall-topping guns, enemies could not get inside. You will hear the legend of a multi-kilometer dungeon, find out who lives in it and what is hidden there.

Organizational details

• Car transport is included in the price
• The journey to the first location will take about 1.5 hours.
• Entrance tickets are paid additionally - 30 thousand soums per person. That's the total amount for all the fortresses.