The finest and most slender of Khiva's minarets rises to a height of 45m. A tip for architects: the arrangement of colours and ceramic sizes creates rings that get narrower as they reach the summit, making it appear even taller than it actually is. Its height meant it could be used as a military watchtower, but also as a guide, like a lighthouse in the desert, for caravans crossing the Kyzyl Kum in search of their next stopping place. It stands next to a madrasa housing a small museum of decorative arts.