Slender Minaret Madrasa
A masterpiece of Seljuk stonework
Image credit: Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 3.0
About
One of the most elegant examples of Konya's Seljuk heritage, the Slender Minaret Madrasa represents the pinnacle of 13th-century stonework with its magnificent crown gate and the slender, tall minaret that gives it its name. It serves today as the Museum of Stone and Wooden Artefacts. The structure's most striking feature is its monumental portal, adorned with geometric and floral motifs and flowing calligraphy; this stone gate is considered one of the most splendid works of Seljuk decorative art. The Seljuk-era stone and wood carvings displayed inside reveal the aesthetic richness of the era. Its slender minaret, whose upper section collapsed after a lightning strike, carries both the structure's elegance and its tragic story; at the foot of Alâeddin Hill, this madrasa is an ideal stop to discover Konya's Seljuk splendour.
History
Built in 1264 by the Seljuk vizier Sahip Ata Fahreddin Ali. Its crown gate is regarded as a masterpiece of Seljuk stone ornamentation; the upper part of its slender, double-balconied minaret collapsed after a lightning strike in 1901.
Visiting Tips
- ✓Examine the stonework of the crown gate closely
- ✓See the stone and wooden artefacts inside
- ✓Combine with the Alâeddin Mosque
- ✓Morning light is ideal for photos
- ✓The entrance fee is modest
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Slender Minaret Madrasa?
Slender Minaret Madrasa is located at Selçuklu, Konya in Konya.
When is the best time to visit Slender Minaret Madrasa?
Recommended time: Year-round.