Ulugh Beg Madrasah

The madrasah’s architectural origins are shrouded in mystery, with some attributing its design to Kavam-ud-din Shirazi and others to Kamaleddin Muhandis. Regardless of its creator, the madrasah rose as a grand edifice, its entrance portal bearing a 1417 inscription that speaks to its distinguished status.

The madrasah’s walls are a canvas of vibrant colors, with glazed bricks in shades of blue, azure, and terracotta. The facade, which faces the animated Registan Square, features a peshtak adorned with elaborate mosaics that depict celestial patterns, inviting visitors through its trio of entrances.

With its construction completed in 1420, the Ulugh Beg Madrasah quickly became a preeminent center of learning, earning the title ‘oliya.’ It was celebrated for its comprehensive curriculum, which included theological studies, mathematics, philosophy, and astronomy, retaining its esteemed position even after Samarkand’s decline as the capital.

The madrasah’s layout was meticulously planned, with two-story student cells, classrooms, and a library surrounding a square courtyard. Architecturally, it was marked by four domes and soaring minarets, although it has faced the ravages of time, including the collapse of a minaret in 1870 and earthquake damage in 1907.

Today, the madrasah’s legacy lives on, with two of the original eastern minarets restored and standing tall, serving as enduring emblems of the madrasah’s historical and architectural legacy. These minarets continue to inspire awe and serve as a reminder of Samarkand’s storied past.