Tilla-Kori madrasah

The Tilla-Kori Madrasah is a testament to the lavish artistic traditions of the region, with its surfaces richly adorned with intricate herbal motifs and linear designs. Although much of the original decoration was lost to time, restoration efforts in the latter half of the 20th century have painstakingly revived its former splendor. In recognition of its cultural and historical significance, the madrasah was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2001.

A notable feature of the madrasah is the mosque located in its western section, crowned with a magnificent glazed dome. The mosque’s interior is a marvel of craftsmanship, with gold applied using the traditional ‘kyndal’ technique, which has captivated worshippers and visitors alike. For many years, this mosque served as the principal mosque of Samarkand, a city renowned for its spiritual and architectural magnificence.

The Tilla-Kori Madrasah is not merely a historical monument; it is a living narrative of the city’s illustrious past and a symbol of the crossroads of cultures that Samarkand has always been. It stands as a reminder of the city’s place as a beacon of knowledge and faith on the ancient Silk Road.