Sherdor Madrasah: The Iconic 17th-Century ‘Madrasah of Lions’ with 20 Ornamental Rooms at Registan Square

Sherdor Madrasah (Sherdor madrasasi in Uzbek, Madrasa-i Sherdor in Persian, meaning “Madrasah of Lions”) is a magnificent 17th-century Islamic educational, spiritual, and cultural monument located on Registan Square in Samarkand. Its name is derived from the Persian words sher (lion) and dor (bearing), reflecting the striking imagery of lions prominently displayed in its architectural design. Together with Ulugh Beg Madrasah and Tillya-Kari Madrasah, it forms the harmonious architectural ensemble of Registan Square. In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, Sherdor Madrasah was inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2001, alongside other iconic landmarks of Samarkand.

The History of Sherdor Madrasah: A Symbol of Registan Square

Sherdor Madrasah, one of the iconic structures of Registan Square in Samarkand, was built between 1619 and 1636 under the patronage of Yalangtush Bahadur, the local governor (hakim) of Samarkand from the Uzbek Alchin tribe. The construction was led by the Samarkand architect Abdul Jabbar, with decorative elements crafted by the master artist Muhammad Abbas.

Construction and Design

The madrasah was erected on the eastern side of Registan Square, replacing the Ulugh Beg Khanqah built in 1424. Materials from the dismantled khanqah were reused for the new structure, a fact confirmed by archaeological excavations conducted in 1956 by Soviet archaeologist S.N. Yurenyov. This sustainable use of materials allowed the builders to honor Samarkand’s architectural heritage while creating a fresh addition to the square.

Sherdor Madrasah was designed as a “kosh,” or paired structure, mirroring the earlier Ulugh Beg Madrasah. The two buildings were intended to face each other as symmetrical counterparts. However, due to the two-meter rise in the square’s ground level over two centuries, Sherdor Madrasah’s proportions appear more grounded compared to the elegance of its predecessor.

The name “Sherdor” derives from the stunning mosaic on the portal’s tympanum, which features an allegorical hunting scene. The imagery depicts a mythical feline resembling a tiger with a lion’s mane pursuing a gazelle beneath the radiant sun. This motif, rich with cultural and symbolic significance, later became a national emblem of Uzbekistan.

Cultural and Educational Legacy

For nearly three centuries, Sherdor Madrasah served as a prominent Islamic educational institution. While its prestige did not rival that of the capital’s institutions or the Ulugh Beg Madrasah, it remained a respected center of learning. Despite its size, the madrasah accommodated only about 40 students at a time. Among its notable alumni was Shihab al-Din Marjani, a renowned Tatar theologian, philosopher, and historian affiliated with the Naqshbandi Sufi order.

Challenges and Restoration Efforts

Throughout its history, Sherdor Madrasah endured several destructive earthquakes, with the most significant occurring in the 19th century. These events caused structural damage, including deformation of the main portal’s arch, collapse of decorative elements, and tilting of its minarets.

In the early 20th century, Soviet authorities ceased teaching activities within the madrasah and nationalized the building. Restoration began in 1924, focusing on repairing hujras (student cells), reconstructing the arch of the main portal, and replacing damaged mosaics. Later efforts included the stabilization of minarets, relaying of domes, and restoration of facade tiles. Notably, between 1960 and 1962, the mosaic on the main portal’s tympanum was meticulously reconstructed under the guidance of artist V.N. Gorokhov and architect A.I. Freytag.

In the late 1950s, archaeological studies were conducted on the madrasah grounds, leading to further conservation work. By the mid-1960s, restoration efforts were completed, preserving the structure as a key historical and cultural site.

Architecture of Sherdor Madrasah: A Testament to Timeless Elegance

Sherdor Madrasah is a striking example of Central Asian medieval architecture, seamlessly combining traditional design elements with innovative decorative techniques. The building, rectangular in layout, covers an area of 70 by 57 meters and stands as a symbol of Samarkand’s architectural legacy.

Structural Features

The main facade of the madrasah is dominated by a monumental entrance portal, or peshtak, featuring a pointed arch that soars to a height of 31.5 meters. Flanking the facade are two minarets, each 31 meters tall, crowned with stalactite cornices. The eastern outer corners are designed as three-quarter towers, blending harmoniously with the height of the walls.

Inside, the spacious courtyard, paved with large slabs of Chupan Ata slate, follows a four-iwan layout, measuring 30 by 38 meters. It is surrounded by two tiers of 48 one-room hujras (student cells). At each corner of the courtyard are domed lecture halls, or darskhana. The domes of the front-facing darskhana are ribbed and sit atop high drums, adorned with turquoise tiles. One of these domed halls, to the right of the main entrance, was later transformed into a gurkhana (mausoleum) containing several unidentified burials. The hall on the left serves as a mosque. The side iwans feature niches with semi-domed, multi-faceted vaults, showcasing unique architectural ingenuity.

Decorative Splendor

Sherdor Madrasah is renowned for its intricate decoration, which employs an extensive use of glazed bricks, majolica, and kashin mosaics. The exterior facades are adorned with complex geometric patterns, or girih, designed for visibility from afar. Minaret friezes and drum surfaces feature epigraphic ornaments, blending script and art seamlessly.

The mosaic tympanum of the main portal is a masterpiece of Islamic art, celebrated for its rarity and craftsmanship. The tympanum is adorned with a vivid mosaic depicting lions chasing gazelles under a radiant sun—a motif that has become one of Uzbekistan’s national symbols. The arches of the hujras are richly decorated with climbing vines, blooming flowers, and intricate patterns that form an elegant lace-like design.

The western iwan features unique mosaic panels depicting elaborate bouquets of flowers in stylized vases, symbolizing the tree of life. This symbolism adds a spiritual dimension to the madrasah’s decorative elements.

Interior Elegance

The interiors, particularly the domed darskhana, are adorned with exquisite craftsmanship. Walls and vaults are painted in the kundal technique, characterized by intricate, multi-colored floral patterns. The dome itself is an artistic marvel, featuring complex arabesque medallions that draw the eye upward, creating a sense of infinite space and celestial harmony.

A Harmony of Form and Function

Sherdor Madrasah’s architectural and decorative elements work in harmony to create a structure that is both functional and visually stunning. The vibrant mosaics, intricate patterns, and symbolic motifs not only celebrate the artistic achievements of its era but also preserve the cultural and spiritual essence of Samarkand. It stands as a timeless reminder of the city’s golden age and its enduring legacy in the world of Islamic architecture.

A Lasting Legacy

Today, Sherdor Madrasah stands as a timeless symbol of Samarkand’s rich history and artistic brilliance. Its intricate mosaics, vibrant colors, and unique iconography continue to captivate visitors, offering a glimpse into the city’s glorious past. As part of the UNESCO-recognized Registan Square, the madrasah remains a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of its builders and the enduring cultural significance of Samarkand in the Islamic world.