The Registan Square is a real gem located in the very heart of the ancient city of Samarkand. It has gained its worldwide fame thanks to the great architectural ensemble that has become a monument of the oriental architecture. From three sides, the square is surrounded with grand madrassah, portals of which are facing the center of the space. All three erections have their own unique décor. It is by virtue of these buildings, preserved on the territory of the city, Samarkand was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2001.
The history of the Registan Square
Translated from Uzbek, “registan” means a sand place. In the ancient times, this central square was covered by sand. The territory was not initially surrounded by madrassah; those great erections appeared rather later. In that period, authorities of the city were gathering people on the square to announce khan’s orders, held celebrations and public executions, and collected the army leaving to war.
Registan Square is the pulsating heart of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning Islamic architecture and historical significance. The name “Registan” translates to “sandy place” in Persian, reflecting the square’s original function as a sandy marketplace in ancient times. The square is adorned with three grand madrasahs, each a masterpiece of Islamic architecture:
1. Ulugh Beg Madrasah:
Built in the 15th century by Ulugh Beg, a Timurid ruler and renowned astronomer, this madrasah is the oldest of the three. Its imposing portal, adorned with intricate mosaics and calligraphy, leads into a courtyard where students once studied science, mathematics, theology, and philosophy.
2. Sher-Dor Madrasah:
Constructed in the 17th century during the reign of Shaybanid dynasty, the Sher-Dor Madrasah is characterized by its twin minarets, which are adorned with images of roaring lions—an unusual motif in Islamic art. The minarets symbolize strength and power, and the madrasah’s facade is embellished with colorful tilework depicting tigers and suns.
3. Tilya-Kori Madrasah:
Completed in the 17th century, the Tilya-Kori Madrasah stands out for its gilded dome, which gives it its name, meaning “adorned with gold.” It served not only as a center for religious education but also as a place of worship, with a mosque located within its walls. The interior is lavishly decorated with intricate designs in gold leaf, creating a mesmerizing ambiance.
The Registan Square has witnessed centuries of history, serving as a bustling center of commerce, culture, and learning along the ancient Silk Road. Today, it remains a symbol of Samarkand’s grandeur and a testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of the Timurid dynasty.
Visitors to Registan Square can marvel at the intricate tilework, study the inscriptions of poetry and religious verses adorning the facades, and imagine the scholarly pursuits that once took place within its walls. The square comes alive during the evenings when illuminated, offering a magical atmosphere that transports visitors back in time to the days of ancient Samarkand.
