Anatolian Seljuks Madrasahs The first madrasahs in history were established in Islamic countries. Prior to the creation of madrasahs, mosques served as schools outside of prayer times, and the education primarily focused on memorizing the Koran and teaching religious knowledge. As time passed, it became less acceptable for mosques, which were intended for worship, to simultaneously function as schools. Consequently, Imams began conducting lessons in their own homes. Madrasah buildings were designed with rooms surrounding a central courtyard: an iwan at the center of each side and student cells placed between them. The architectural layout of madrasahs constructed in Anatolia typically included a courtyard, iwan, winter dershane (lecture hall), and student chambers, which are present in all surviving madrasahs from this era. Additionally, some madrasahs also feature mosques, tombs, fountains, and minarets. Madrasahs were established by wealthy individuals and high-ranking state officials, and they were not under government supervision. As a result, the state did not cover the expenses for students' meals or other costs, such as employee salaries and maintenance. To ensure the madrasah's expenses were covered after their death, those who built the madrasahs would allocate a portion of their income-generating resources. Consequently, each madrasah functioned as a waqf (charitable institution). The Anatolian Seljuk Madrasahs, built in the 12th and 13th centuries, are prime examples of Islamic architecture. While religious education was the primary purpose of these madrasahs, some also served as hospitals and observatories. These madrasahs are especially significant in Turkish-Islamic architecture due to their remarkable design and intricate stone craftsmanship. The Anatolian Seljuk Madrasahs are renowned for their stunning architecture, including the İnce Minareli Madrasah and Karatay Madrasah in Konya; Çifte Madrasah (Gevher Nesibe) and Sahibiye Madrasah in Kayseri; Buruciye Madrasah, Çifte Minareli Madrasah, and Gök Madrasah in Sivas; Çifte Minareli Madrasah and Yakutiye Madrasah in Erzurum; and the Cacabey Madrasah in Kirşehir. Below, you can explore some of the most important Anatolian Seljuk Madrasahs and learn more about them: