Changes After Construction
In 1899, damage was identified in the lead covering of the madrasa dome, and a decision was taken for its repair.
It is recorded that it was repaired in 1960.
An inscription dated 1397 (1977) was placed above the arch of the classroom door; this inscription stated that the madrasa was used as a dormitory for a period.
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It is also known as the Atik Valide Madrasa and the Eski Valide Madrasa.
It is located to the north of the Toptaşı Mosque and in front of the fountain courtyard; since the mosque courtyard remains at a higher level, the madrasa courtyard is reached by descending a stone staircase of 19 steps.
There is a small domed room above the staircase; it is stated that Sheikh Abdulkadir Efendi resided in this room for a period.
It has more than one gate opening to the outside; it is also recorded that there is no inscription above these gates.
It is stated that there was a marble fountain at the center of the courtyard and a well near the mosque courtyard wall.
In front of the rooms arranged on three sides of the courtyard, there is a domed portico; the portico is carried by 17 marble columns.
The portico units are given as a total of 19 units; the number of cells is given as 18 in total, while the classroom is defined as a separate mass on the central axis of the courtyard.
The cells are lit by three windows; it is recorded that the cells contained fireplace and cupboard niches.
It is stated that Valide Kethüdası Street passes beneath the square-planned classroom; the classroom is reached by stairs from two sides.
It is stated that, in the late 16th century, the madrasa was counted among the leading madrasas of Istanbul; scholarly gatherings (dersiam) were held in the madrasa, and Nurbanu Sultan donated a valuable book collection for the madrasa.
