The word ''Registan'' is derived from Persian and means a ''sandy place''. Today Registan square is one of the most famous architectural ensembles in Samarkand and one of the most outstanding examples of urban planning and architecture in the entire East.
The ensemble that we see today consists three magnificent madrasahs - Ulugbek, Sher-Dor and Tilla-Kari. These were religious and educational institutions, comparable in some ways to the medieval world.
The development of Registan Square
During the medieval period Registan was an important public space where people gathered for trade, celebrations, announcement, and everyday activities. The square gradually became the center of Samarkand's urban life. Over time, the monuments were restored and preserved, allowing visitors from around the word to experience their beautiful blue tiles, intricate patterns, and monumental architecture. Today, Registan Square is a symbol of Samarkand's history, culture and architectural heritage, and it remains a must see destination for travelers visiting Uzbekistan.
Ulugbek Madrasah
Standing proudly on the famous Registan Square, Ulugbek Madrasah is one of Samarkand's most remarkable historical monuments. Built during the Timurid period, it represents not only the beauty of Central Asia architecture, but also the importance of science and education in medieval Samarkand. Ulugbek Madrasah was build between 1417 and 1420 by Mirzo Ulugbek the Timurid ruler, astronomer and scholar. Unlike many rulers of his time, Ulugbek was deeply interested in science and education institutions and personally taught at the madrasah, according to historical sources. The madrasah originally had numerous student rooms and lecture spaces. creating an important center of learning in Samarkand. It became associated with scholars, poets and intellectual of the period. Today, Ulugbek Madrasah is one of the three iconic buildings of Registan Square and an essential stop for anyone exploring Samarkand.
Restoration and Preservation
Ulugbek Madrasah suffered considerable damage during the political turmoil of the 1720s. The second floor and the exterior domes were destroyed. Both minarets of the madrasah were later straightened because they were in danger of collapsing. The northwestern minaret was straightened 1932 according to a project by the engineer Vladimir Shukhov. At the time, the top of the minaret had a deviated approximately 180cm from its vertical position, while the total height of the minaret was about 33m.
The rise of the Sher-Dor Madrasah
During 17th century, construction activity in Samarkand began to flourish again. Several madrasahs, mausoleums, mosques were constructed during this period. The new dynasty that replaced the Timurids was Shaybanid's dynasty named after its ancestor, Muhammad Shaybani. With a short interruption Shaybanid's ruled the region until to the end of the 16th century. After the capital of the state was transferred to Bukhara, the Shaybanid's interest in the development of Samarkand declined. However, constructions activity revived in 17 century. One of the important figures of this period Yalangtush Bahadur, who was appointed hakim or ruler of Samarkand Imamquli Khan. Yalangtush Bahadur governed Samarkand for approximately 30 years, from 1626 to 1656 and later became known Sher-Dor, meaning ''decorated with lions''. The architectural decorations includes glazed brick facings, carved mosaics and marble slabs. The decoration demonstrates a remarkably heigh level of craftsmanship and technical skill.
The famous Sher-Dor mosaic.
One of the most recognizable features of Sher-Dor Madrasah is a large mosaic composition above the entrance. It depicts lion-like imaginary predator chasing a doe or deer with the face of a rising sun behind it. It was the distinctive image that gave the Madrasah its name Sher-Dor, ''Lion Bearing''. Behind the monumental entrance portal is a courtyard surrounded by two level of hujras, or student rooms. The madrasah is also contained lecture halls where students studied Islamic science and other subjects. The facade richly decorated with glazed tiles, colorful mosaic, geometric patterns, floral ornaments, inscriptions, and marble elements. Despite its resemblance to Ulugbek Madrasah , Sher-Dor its own distinctive 17th century artistic character.
Tilla Kari Madrasah
Standing at the center of Registan Square, Tilla-Kari Madrasah,is the youngest of the tree magnificent buildings that form Samarkand's famous Registan ensemble. The name Tilla-Kari comes from the Uzbek words meaning ''decorated with a gold'' or ''gilded''
