Sherdor Madrasa

Sherdor Madrasa is one of the three stunning architectural jewels of Registan Square in Samarkand, alongside: Ulugh Beg Madrasa Tilla-Kari Madrasa Sherdor Madrasa A single entry fee of 150,000 UZS covers access to all three historical sites. Built in the 17th century, Sherdor Madrasa is easily recognizable by its vibrant facade and unique tilework. The name “Sherdor” means “With Lions,” referencing the striking mosaic on its entrance portal depicting two tiger-lion figures — a rare artistic element in Islamic architecture that makes this madrasa especially iconic. Although not as old as Ulugh Beg Madrasa, Sherdor was built to mirror it in structure and design, creating a symmetrical harmony on the square. The craftsmanship, especially on the entrance arch and dome, reflects the peak of Persian and Central Asian artistry. Inside, the madrasa houses small souvenir shops and craft displays, where you can see traditional Uzbek textiles, ceramics, and miniature paintings. While the madrasa is visually impressive, some areas inside appear aged and could benefit from better upkeep, much like its neighboring structures. Despite that, Sherdor Madrasa remains a top highlight of Registan Square, admired for its bold artwork, symmetry, and historical value.

According to Lonely Planet, It took 17 years to build this one but it hasn’t held up as well as the Ulugbek Medressa, built in just three years. More facts: the Sherdor madrassa stands, its facade blazing with intricate orange tiles. Built between 1619 and 1636, craftsmen labored seventeen years shaping each arch. Two tigers hunt gazelles on the portal—unusual in Islamic architecture. The structure reaches a height of twenty meters, dominating the plaza. Sixty-four rooms once housed students and scholars. Restoration efforts in the 20th century halted stone loss by 50%. Tourists walk the length of the facade, over seventy meters from end to end, measuring the legacy of Samarkand's golden age in each tile’s glazed gleam. Remarkable Quantified Facts - Facade stretches 70 meters. - Height reaches 20 meters. - Construction spanned 17 years, completed in 1636. - Contains 64 original hujras (student cells). - Main portal displays two tiger mosaics, unique for Islamic sites. - Mid-20th-century restoration reduced masonry deterioration by 50%. - Registan ensemble attracts over 200,000 visitors annually.

One of the three madrassas in Registan square. Beautiful work of blue and teal mosaics. Highly recommend to come early to take great shots as it gets pretty crowded. Also you should visit the place both in day and in the evening. Plan around 30 mins for each of the madrassas as they have historical notations inside the structures as well as gift shops, coffee shops, art stores, traditional clothes stores to explore.

Beastly beautiful? At the beginning of the 17th century, Yalangtush Bahadur, the governor of Bukhara, had the chanaka (hostel for pilgrims) at the Registan demolished to build a second madrasa. The Sher Dor Madrasa, which was built between 1619 and 1636, was a mirror image of the Ulugh Beg Madrasa opposite, according to the "kosh principle". The name of the Koranic school is derived from the two lions (which in my opinion look much more like a tiger) that decorate the enormous pishtaq. The Sher Dor Madrasa is also lavishly decorated, especially with patterns and (Koranic) texts.

A beautiful 17th-century madrasa built to mirror the 200-year older Ulugh Beg madrasa across Registan square. It features a lovely façade and interior. The ticket for the entire Registan complex is bought near the southwest corner of the Ulugh Beg madrasa.

The 3rd and last monument in Regestan area. It is different in many ways. Inside is magical. There are sales shops inside that sales artifacts. Definately do not miss this place. Together with the Ulugh Beg and Tilya Kori madrassas, it forms the monumental ensemble of Registan, the ancient heart of the city. The building is considered one of the main tourist attractions in Samarkand and is known for its profuse tile decoration and polychrome plant-themed paintings.

Beautiful Experience. One of my top sights I’ve seen in my life ( though I’m not adult). The best time to visit in my opinion is at 9 pm or slightly before when the light show begins. (Closes at 12pm) Truly beautiful. The entrance to enter the square and the Madrassah is about 50000 sum, about 4€. Definitely worth paying. There is also a museum inside with the information in English too.

Sherdor Madrasah is one of the most historical madrasah in Samarkand Uzbekistan, part of the Islamic history as a muslim educational institution. This amazing and fascinating madrasah located in a complex of Registan square along with the other two madrasah. This site just built on 17th century, which is quite old. But the condition still good and well preserved. The people just call Sherdor which translated as “the abode of Lions”