Kasımiye Madrasa
A madrasa whose pool tells of life
Image credit: Nedim Ardoğa, CC BY-SA 3.0
About
One of Mardin's most elegant historic structures, the Kasımiye Madrasa is a masterpiece of 15th-century architecture with its carved crown gate, twin domes and the symbolic pool in its courtyard. Its position overlooking the Mesopotamian plain lends the building a magnificent view. The long, stepped pool in the middle of the courtyard is designed to symbolise the flow of human life from birth to death; the slow movement of the water strengthens the madrasa's spiritual atmosphere. Its portal adorned with fine stonework and its arcaded courtyard reveal the aesthetic sensibility of the era. Built for education, the madrasa today keeps alive Mardin's scholarly and architectural heritage as a historic monument open to visitors; with the light striking the pool at sunset, it is one of the favourite stops of photographers and travellers.
History
Built in the 15th century during the Aq Qoyunlu period; according to some sources its foundations date to the Artuqid era. Serving for centuries as an educational institution, the madrasa has survived with its original architecture.
Visiting Tips
- ✓See the symbolic pool in the courtyard and its meaning
- ✓The light at sunset is magnificent
- ✓Take in the plain view from the roof terrace
- ✓Examine the carved crown gate closely
- ✓The best time for photos is late afternoon
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kasımiye Madrasa?
Kasımiye Madrasa is located at Artuklu, Mardin in Mardin.
When is the best time to visit Kasımiye Madrasa?
Recommended time: March – May and October – November.
