“Deshon Qal'a” to be transformed into tourist hub; nearby homes to be relocated (video)

"Deshon Qal'a," a historic fortress constructed in 1842 by the order of Khiva Khan Alloquli Khan, will be turned into a major tourist destination similar to the iconic "Ichan Qal'a." In line with this initiative, residential and non-residential structures in the surrounding neighborhoods will be relocated. This was announced by the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change.

According to the ministry, "Deshon Qal'a" is currently in a severely dilapidated state. Of its 6,200-meter-long wall, 2,000 meters have completely collapsed and 2,500 meters are deemed unusable. Moreover, years of unauthorized construction around the wall have left no space for pedestrian access.

“The Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change is working to turn Deshon Qal'a into a tourism hub like Ichan Qal'a by restoring the ruined wall and creating green public spaces,” the ministry said in a press release.

For context, Ichan Qal'a is one of Uzbekistan’s most visited heritage sites, boasting 58 cultural landmarks and archaeological monuments, over 28 exhibitions, 56,670 historical artifacts, and 174 craft shops. In 2024 alone, it drew approximately 1 million foreign and 3.5 million domestic tourists. By the end of 2025, these numbers are expected to rise to 2 million and 5 million, respectively.

To implement the restoration and tourism development plan, 55 residential and non-residential buildings in Khiva’s “Shiklar” neighborhood will be relocated. The vacated area will be converted into green spaces and gardens, with landscaping and tree-planting projects underway.

Additionally, the fortress walls will be restored according to national standards. Walkways measuring 1.5 to 2 meters will be built around the perimeter to allow public access. A modern tourist complex is also planned for the “Shiklar” and “Angarik” neighborhoods adjacent to the site.

“These measures are designed not only to preserve Deshon Qal'a, but also to unlock its full tourism potential,” the ministry emphasized.