Kamol-Kazy Madrasah

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Kamol-Kazy Madrasah

Kamol-Kazy madrasah, Kokand

The Kamol-Kazy Madrasah is a significant historical site in Kokand, built between 1830 and 1832. It is renowned for its classical Kokand architectural style and its role as a center of Islamic education. This small yet captivating structure is situated to the west of the Jami Mosque complex, making it an essential part of Kokand’s rich cultural heritage.

During the mid-19th century, the Kamol-Kazy Madrasah served as a prestigious institution of higher education for the children of local nobility. It offered a comprehensive Islamic education, emphasizing both religious and secular subjects. The madrasah included various facilities such as a classroom (darshona), living quarters (hujras), and a mosque with an aivan (an open hall). This educational institution played a crucial role in the intellectual and spiritual development of Kokand’s elite.

Kamol-Kazy madrasah, Kokand
Kamol-Kazy madrasah, Kokand
Kamol-Kazy madrasah, Kokand
Kamol-Kazy madrasah, Kokand
Kamol-Kazy madrasah, Kokand

The Kamol-Kazy Madrasah is a masterpiece of Kokand’s medieval architecture. The entrance portal, the most ornate part of the structure, features rich finishes and cylindrical side towers adorned with colorful tiles and majolica in geometric patterns, Arabic inscriptions, and dome lamps. These decorative elements reflect the artistic and cultural influences of the time.

Constructed entirely of baked bricks, the madrasah showcases the durability and aesthetic appeal of traditional building materials. Upon entering the portal, visitors find themselves in the darshona, a classroom situated under a tetrahedral dome. This central space served as the primary area for instruction and learning.

Surrounding the darshona is a square courtyard measuring 20 by 20 meters, lined with single-story hujdras. These rooms provided accommodation for students and teachers, creating a communal living and learning environment. The courtyard also features an aivan mosque supported by four columns, with the entrance facing east. This mosque served as a place for daily prayers and religious gatherings.

The interior of the Kamol-Kazy Madrasah is adorned with intricate ganch (plaster) work and hand-painted designs. The walls and ceilings are decorated with delicate patterns and vibrant colors, showcasing the artistic talents of the craftsmen of that era. This attention to detail enhances the aesthetic appeal of the madrasah, making it a visual delight for visitors.

The serene courtyard, the ornate entrance portal, and the meticulously designed interiors offer a unique glimpse into the past.