Cultural Heritage Agency Denies Reports on Chodra Khovli Complex Condition

Uzbekistan's Cultural Heritage Agency has addressed recent social media claims regarding the state of the Chodra Khovli complex, located in the Khiva district of the Khorezm region. The agency affirmed that the site is under governmental protection and underwent extensive restoration between 2022 and 2023. This restoration, commissioned by the agency and financed by the state budget, was executed by the Khiva Regional Restoration Centre.

The primary objective of the restoration was to safeguard the monument's original historical and architectural integrity, utilizing traditional construction methods. Work encompassed reinforcing and mending the ayvans and staircases, applying traditional adobe plaster to the exterior walls, and finishing the interiors with ganch. The agency clarified that contemporary construction techniques were employed only when essential to best preserve the complex's historical aesthetic.

Improvements were also made to the surrounding grounds, including the creation of pedestrian pathways and the installation of a night lighting system for visitors.

The agency stated its ongoing commitment to the complex's preservation and promotion. Future plans involve enhancing the tourism infrastructure around the monument to attract both domestic and international visitors.

The agency further noted that Chodra Khovli, constructed in 1871, served as a summer retreat for the Khiva khans. Its name is a shortened version of the Persian term "chordara," with "chor" signifying "four" and "dara" meaning "steep ravine" or "gorge."