Dosseman · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source & license
Zinciriye (Sultan İsa) Madrasa
Indoor access needs confirmation
A 1385 Artuqid madrasa perched just below Mardin Castle, celebrated for its twin fluted domes and sweeping rooftop views over the old town.
Built in 1385 by the last Artuqid ruler Malik Najm al-Din Isa, Zinciriye Madrasa steps gracefully into the steep limestone hillside across two terraced levels. Its twin fluted domes at the east and west ends and its muqarnas entry portal showcase peak Mardin stone carving. From the upper terrace you can take in both the rocky crag of Mardin Castle above and the Great Mosque and Mesopotamian plain below.
Why visit
To look out from the highest walkable terrace beside the fluted stone domes over Old Mardin’s rooftops and the plain below.
Climb up early in the morning to see the muqarnas portal and inscription bands in soft side light before crowds arrive.
