Mardin Zinciriye Medresesi, Historic madrasa in Artuklu, Mardin Province, Turkey
The Mardin Zinciriye Medresesi is a historic madrasa from the late 14th century, located in the old town of Mardin, in southern Turkey. Built from yellow cut stone, it has two levels, two courtyards, and an ornately carved entrance gate.
The madrasa was built in 1385 under the Artuqid dynasty, a Turkmen ruling family that governed Mardin for several centuries. Over time, the building served various purposes, including a period as an observatory before becoming a site open to visitors.
The name Zinciriye is said to come from a golden chain that once linked the madrasa to the nearby Ulu Mosque. The chain reportedly disappeared during a Mongol attack, but the name stayed, and locals still use it today.
The madrasa is freely accessible and sits in the heart of the old town, within easy walking distance of the surrounding lanes, markets, and mosques. Those arriving by car can park at Cumhuriyet Square and walk from there.
Although the building no longer functions as a school, it occasionally hosts cultural events and exhibitions that keep it connected to the local community. From certain spots on the site, you get a clear view over the vast plain that spreads south of Mardin.
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