Historical and Cultural Places

Kukeldash Madrasah

Buxoro viloyati | Mehtar Ambar, 91

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An architectural monument in Bukhara. It was built by Kulbaba Kukeldash, the vizier of the Khan of Bukhara (1568-69). It is located to the north of the Labi Hovuz ensemble. The two-sided head is directed toward the ensemble area. The tiles decorating the portal have not been preserved. The entrance to the madrasah courtyard is through a 5-domed miyansaroy.

Kukeldash Madrasah is one of the most famous and largest historical madrasahs in Bukhara. It was built in 1568–1569 by Qulbobo Kukeldash, a close statesman of Abdullah Khan II. The madrasah is located on the northeastern side of the Lyabi-Hauz ensemble and is considered one of the largest preserved madrasahs in Central Asia.

For centuries, the madrasah served as an important center of education and scholarship in Bukhara. Students from Bukhara, Transoxiana, as well as India, Iran, Afghanistan, the Caucasus, and other regions studied here. Many renowned scholars, poets, and statesmen received their education within its walls.

Architecturally, the madrasah is a two-story complex with 160 cells (hujras), a monumental entrance portal, a spacious courtyard, a mosque, and lecture halls. Its decoration features traditional mosaic work, glazed tiles, and carved gypsum ornamentation.

Today, Kukeldash Madrasah remains one of Bukhara’s most significant historical and tourist attractions. Some of its cells are used as handicraft workshops, shops, and museum spaces.