Köprülü Mehmet Pasha Madrasa

Köprülü Mehmet Pasha Madrasa is one of the numerous historical values surrounding Sultanahmet Square and around in Fatih District of Istanbul.

Located between Çemberlitaş Turkish Bath and Binbirdirek Cistern (aka Cistern of Philoxenos), the madrasa is a part of the social complex constructed by Mehmet Pasha and Fazıl Ahmet Pasha from Köprülü Family who marked the 17th century of the Ottoman Empire. The building, accessible through the yard with a fountain in the middle, has a spacious interior design with big windows and two doors opening to the yard.

The octagonal planned drum dome and double row window design of the madrasa are quite outstanding. The madrasa provided education equal to the higher education today, and it also functioned as a prayer room.

The building, made of cut stones, consists of 10 rooms. Another place is available in the small garden behind for the needs such as WC, shower and washing the clothes. The historical madrasa is estimated to be used till the early 20th century and was left unattained for long years. After its restoration, the structure has been functioning as the building of Kubbealtı Academy Culture and Art Foundation. The academic conferences, concerts and seminars are organized under the body of the foundation, and various courses are offered there in relation to the arts and the language.