The Yakutiye Madrasa (Yakutiye Medresesi)Places to Visit in Erzurum

The Yakutiye Madrasa, also referred to as Yakutiye Medresesi, was constructed in 1310 by the command of Khwaja Yaqut, the Ilkhanid governor of Erzurum.

This rectangular-shaped madrasa is centered around a courtyard, with its main entrance situated on the western side. The entrance features a double door that opens into an alcove richly decorated with detailed ornaments on three sides. The western façade displays an inscription band encircling the spandrels, followed by a vegetal pattern inspired by split palmette designs, a geometric motif, and a carved vegetal decoration. Each panel is topped and bottomed with a tree of life motif, while the center showcases an eagle figure, and lions are carved at the base.

Two cylindrical towers topped with conical roofs stand at each end of the western façade. The southern tower is taller and slimmer, decorated with a strapwork motif crafted in brick, while the northern tower is shorter, broader, and remains undecorated.

Entering the madrasa from the north leads into a square vestibule, which connects to a central area formed by four vaulted bays surrounding a central bay with a hexagonal roof featuring three skylights. These bays are supported by four piers, each embellished with detailed muqarnas ornamentation.

The western wall of the madrasa consists of a barrel-vaulted bay with an entrance vestibule, whereas the north, south, and east walls consist of bays opening into iwans. The cells surround the covered courtyard, which includes a mihrab on one side and an octagonal tower at the eastern end. The tower’s exterior is decorated with blind arches and is crowned with a conical roof.

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