Khiva is a city of approximately 90,000 people in Xorazm Region, Uzbekistan. It was established around 1500 years ago and has a rich historical significance as the former capital of Khwarezmia. Itchan Kala in Khiva was the first site in Uzbekistan to be inscribed in the World Heritage List. The famous astronomer and historian, Al-Biruni, was born in Khiva or the nearby city of Kath.