The Nurullaboy Palace was built between 1906 and 1912 as the residence of the last Khan of Khiva, Isfandiyar. By that point Khiva had been a Russian protectorate for more than 30 years, and the palace shows it: the reception hall is a perfect Belle Époque salon, with parquet floors, mirrors, gilt mouldings, and a piano — built by Russian craftsmen at the khan's expense, alongside more traditional courtyards in the local Khorezmi style.
The combination is unique in Central Asia and worth the short walk north from Itchan Kala. The palace is in two parts: an older traditional courtyard complex and the European reception wing. Both are included in a single ticket. The grounds make a pleasant break from the dust of Itchan Kala.