ABDULLAXON MADRASASI

The Abdullah Khan Madrasa is an architectural monument located in the northern part of the Kosh Madrasa ensemble in Bukhara. It is considered one of the finest examples of architecture from the reign of the Uzbek ruler Abdullah Khan II and reflects the highest achievements of sixteenth-century Bukhara architecture.

History

The architect of the madrasa remains unknown, although it was commissioned by Abdullah Khan II. Construction began between 1577 and 1588 and was completed in 1589–1590.

The madrasa is situated in the northern section of the Kosh Madrasa ensemble, directly opposite the Modarikhan Madrasa. Together, these two buildings form the Kosh Madrasa architectural complex. In Central Asian architecture, a pair of buildings facing one another is known as a “kosh” (“paired”), while the term “Kosh Madrasa” refers specifically to a pair of opposing madrasas.

Architecture

The exterior walls feature large projecting entrance structures on the western and northern portals. On the southern side, where a bathhouse once stood, no such projections are visible.

The mosque within the madrasa was used for the five daily prayers as well as Friday congregational prayers.

The layout differs significantly from that of traditional madrasas. The courtyard is surrounded by two-story student cells. Galleries and tall portals are located on both sides, providing access to interior rooms and the khanqah. The main portal faces south and is richly decorated with glazed ornamentation on its wings and corner towers.

Beyond the entrance gate are two large rooms serving as a classroom and a mosque. The gate itself is a rare masterpiece of khatamkari craftsmanship, composed of tiny wooden pieces arranged in intricate geometric girih patterns.

The courtyard follows the chahar-iwan design, with high portals aligned along a central axis. Complex architectural connections incorporating vestibules and transitional spaces are placed at the corners of the building. A spacious domed hall occupies the western section and is surrounded by two-story cells. The galleries on the upper floor create the visual impression of a gentle curve.

All exterior façades, except for the main portal, are constructed and decorated with baked brick. The center of the main eastern façade features a monumental portal with a deep archway. Above the entrance is a gallery that once served as a library.

The entrance portal was once framed by a broad band of epigraphic inscriptions. Qur’anic verses were written in white letters against a blue background, creating an impressive decorative effect.