Kukeldash Madrasah, 16th-century Islamic school in Shaykhontohur, Uzbekistan.
Kukeldash Madrasah is a 16th-century Islamic school in Shaykhontohur featuring a grand entrance portal and yellow brick construction that dominates the streetscape. A large central courtyard is enclosed by two-story arcaded walkways lined with teaching rooms, displaying traditional Central Asian building methods.
It was founded in 1569 by Dervish Sultan and transitioned through multiple roles including a caravanserai and fortress before eventually becoming a museum. These changing uses reveal how the building adapted to the region's shifting political and social needs over time.
The name honors its founder, and the layout reflects Central Asian educational traditions with its central courtyard surrounded by student quarters and prayer spaces. Visitors immediately sense this arrangement when entering, as the courtyard served as the heart of daily life.
The site is located near Chorsu Bazaar and the metro station, making it easily accessible when exploring the neighborhood on foot. The complex remains open to visitors, and the morning or early afternoon offers the best time to explore when there are fewer crowds.
The structure survived major earthquakes, including the devastating 1966 Tashkent earthquake, while maintaining its original construction. This resilience stands as a testament to the strength of traditional Central Asian building techniques.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
