Tilla-Kori madrasah

The Tilla-Kori madrasah is an educational building in Samarkand featuring symmetrical design with a towering entrance gateway and arched recesses across its facade. The two-story structure with flanking towers encloses a central courtyard that remains open to visitors.

The structure was built between 1646 and 1660 under Samarkand's ruler Yalangtush Bakhadur. It replaced a centuries-old caravan-saray that previously occupied the same location.

The mosque within the complex features Quranic verses inscribed on walls in Persian script, adorned with elaborate gold work. Visitors can still observe these decorations and appreciate the artistic craftsmanship of the period.

Explore the interior where original student quarters surround the open courtyard. Late afternoon light works best for photography, as it highlights the golden decorations on the surfaces.

The name literally translates to 'decorated with gold', referring to the abundant golden ornaments covering interior and exterior surfaces. This elaborate decoration was applied using the traditional kyndal technique, a specialized gilding method.

Location: Samarkand

Inception: 1660

GPS coordinates: 39.65576,66.97509

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:42