Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah

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Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah

Said Akhmad-Khoja, Margilan

The Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah, constructed at the end of the 19th century, stands as a relatively young yet significant monument in Margilan, Uzbekistan. With a history spanning just over 200 years, this madrasah exemplifies a unique blend of architectural styles and cultural heritage, making it a notable landmark in the region.

The Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah is celebrated for its harmonious composition, proportional elements, and rational design. The complex consists primarily of the madrasah itself and an adjoining mosque, which includes a hall and an ayvan (a vaulted open-air room) adorned with intricately painted ceilings.

Unlike many traditional madrasahs, the Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah features a design that merges both Eastern and European architectural styles. Its square courtyard, bordered by rows of lancet arches, is characteristic of Oriental design. However, the construction techniques incorporate European elements, particularly in the mosque’s structural reinforcements. The brick-built madrasah was designed with the region’s seismic activity in mind; hence, the walls were strengthened using a dual-layer wooden frame, a method that also visually enhances the interior space.

Said Akhmad-Khoja, Margilan
Said Akhmad-Khoja, Margilan
Said Akhmad-Khoja, Margilan

The interior of the madrasah is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the time. The ceiling of the hall is vividly painted with broad red and green stripes, adorned with floral patterns and curling vines. The walls are divided into rectangular panels featuring elegant geometric ganch (gypsum) ornamentation, with a mihrab niche centrally positioned within these panels. This combination of color and intricate design adds a layer of visual richness to the building’s aesthetic.

In 2007, the Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah underwent significant reconstruction. The renovations included the addition of a broad road and a garden surrounding the complex. The courtyard, shaded by old sycamore trees with sprawling canopies and a wide ditch running through it, offers a cool respite during hot days, enhancing the madrasah’s serene and inviting atmosphere.

Despite its historical roots, the madrasah remains functional today. It continues to serve as a center for religious education, where believers study the Koran and Hadith. The madrasah’s 26 hujras (living quarters), which once housed students, are now occupied by local artisans. These craftsmen are engaged in traditional activities such as weaving, gold embroidery, wood carving, and embossing, thus preserving and promoting the region’s rich cultural heritage.