Kukaldosh Madrasah

Kukeldash Madrasa. It was built in 1568–1569 during the reign of Abdullah-Khan II and was funded by Bukhara governor Kulbab Kukeldash, a high-ranking vizier and “milk brother” to Abdullah Khan II. The madrasah, named after him, is the largest madrasah in Bukhara. The rectangular building, measuring 69 by 80 meters, was constructed by master craftsmen of the time and features 160 hujra cells (student rooms) across two floors surrounding a spacious courtyard. It once accommodated up to 320 students. Unlike typical madrasahs with solid walls, Kukeldash has open niches and balconies adorned with stucco and mosaic. Above each room, individually patterned openwork lattices, called panjara, display intricate hexagonal designs. Though modest in decoration, its size symbolized Bukhara’s power. Inside, two large domed halls served as a mosque and a classroom. Over the centuries, the madrasah has been used as a caravanserai, an Islamic school, and even temporary housing as a hotel. Today, it houses a museum dedicated to writer Sadriddin Ayni, who attended the Kukeldash Madrasah as a student in his youth, preserving its cultural and educational legacy. The courtyard is home to a craft centre where a variety of arts and crafts are produced by artisans by hand using century-old techniques and approaches.

Built between 1568 and 1579, this architectural monument is under state protection and still under renovation. The madrasa features traditional Islamic tilework and intricate brickwork, showcasing the craftsmanship of the Timurid era. It was originally used as an Islamic educational center and remains an important part of Bukhara’s cultural and historical heritage.

There is many beautiful shops here. Also some artists are working.

Large and plain. Just north of the Lyabi Hauz complex is the Kukeldash Madrasa. This school was built in 1568-69 by order of Kulbab, the foster brother of Abdullah-Khan II and governor of Bukhara. The madrasa has 160 hujras (student rooms), making it the largest Koranic school in Bukhara and even one of the largest in Central Asia. In contrast to the other madrasas, the Kukeldash Madrasa is quite sober and plainly decorated. One of the most famous students was Sadriddin Ayni, the Bukhara-born Tajik writer and poet.

Great old fashioned artistic interior at entrance of Madrassah we visited at Sunday as it was open,only one room at corner was opened as Museum other were closed.this room was belongs to teacher s home,with all kind of Comforts at one place,study rooms,sitting and dinning room at one place,from small entrance there was again 5 entrance to separate portions it was surprising for us how they stay at that place.

This is the largest of Bukhara's many madrasahs. It has beautiful arches and blue tiles. Part of the Lyab-i-Hauz complex.

Kukeldash Madrasa is an impressive and beautiful historical site in Bukhara. It is one of the largest madrasas in the city, with grand architecture and a peaceful courtyard inside. The façade is simple but majestic, reflecting the classic style of Bukhara’s madrasas. It is located right near Lyabi Hauz, making it easy to visit while exploring the old city. The atmosphere here feels authentic and spiritual, and it gives you a real sense of Bukhara’s educational and cultural history. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Bukhara.

Built around 16th century,the structure is very big with impressive facade forming a square architecture of four corner towers.