The Medical Museum Inside The Shergazi Khan Madrasa

There are so many identical looking madrasas in the Itchan Kala, old part of Khiva, that the authorities have needed to create theme museums to get tourists to visit the various landmarks. Shergazi Khan has a museum that concentrates on the history of local medicine.

A typical gallery at the madrasa.

A diorama of early treatment. "Here, suck on this horn three times a day and come back and see me in a week." Or maybe a sand bath.

Don't worry about over-heating, a couple of kids have been assigned to monitor you.

Looking sick. Writing sick.

Another bedside consultation. At least the textiles look great.

The Mighty Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum In Khiva

If you happen to be an excellent wrestler, poet, and furrier, you might get an amazing mausoleum dedicated to you. Pahlavan Mahmud was lucky enough to be entombed in such a structure. He was born in 1247, died in 1326. 

Enter through a portal, added to the complex in the 18th century.

The inner courtyard presents a nice introduction to the mausoleum. Upon entering the mausoleum, the eye drifts to the endless blue tile of the ceiling.

And the walls, just an overwhelming sea of blue. Gotta sit down to soak it in.

Other important people (important wrestlers?) are set in outer chambers, also full of tile bling. Mahmud gets the fanciest grave.

A pilgrim, praying in the ante room where Mahmud's tomb is located.