Zal Mahmut Paşa Madrasa
Changes After Construction:
- The waqf deed dated 23.10.1577 shows that construction in the complex was ongoing; it is considered likely that the construction of the madrasas continued until 1582.
- A repair process was carried out for the complex in 1825.
- The 1894 earthquake caused major damage to the complex.
- Following repairs that began in 1955, the complex was reopened for use in 1963.
- In its decision dated 28.08.1991, the Conservation Council requested the preparation of a survey and restoration project for repairs and decided that the madrasa units should be vacated.
- The madrasa units are used today for culture and art-oriented workshop functions.
Prominent Features:
- The structure is one of the two madrasa units of the Zal Mahmud Pasha Complex.
- The complex was placed on sloping terrain; one of the madrasa units is located at the upper level and the other at the lower level.
- The madrasa units are part of the circulation arrangement established by the complex through courtyard gates opening onto two different streets.
- In the original program of the complex, the madrasa, tomb, and fountain were planned together; this arrangement reinforces the structure’s educational identity centered on the religious sciences within the waqf system.
- The madrasa units located at the lower level are described with an L-shaped layout.
