The Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah, a testament to Margilan’s architectural legacy, stands as a blend of oriental and European styles, reflecting the cultural fusion of its era. Built at the end of the 19th century, this relatively “young” monument has aged gracefully, preserving its harmonious composition and rational design.
Central to the complex is the madrasah itself, flanked by a mosque featuring a hall and ayvan with intricately painted ceilings. Unlike traditional Islamic architecture, the design of Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah combines elements from both oriental and European styles. The square courtyard, lined with rows of lancet arches, is a typical feature of eastern architecture, while the mosque’s walls are reinforced in a European style with a two-lane wooden frame, providing both structural stability and visual appeal.
The interior of the hall is adorned with a striking ceiling painted in broad red and green stripes, embellished with delicate floral and vine motifs. The walls are adorned with elegant geometric ganch ornamentation, with rectangular panels highlighting a mihrab niche, adding to the grandeur of the space.
In 2007, the madrasah underwent a reconstruction, enhancing its surroundings with a broad road and a lush garden. The courtyard is adorned with old sycamore trees, their spreading crowns providing shade and tranquility, making it an ideal place to escape the heat of the day.
Today, the Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah remains functional, serving as a place of study for the Quran and Hadith. The 26 hujras, once occupied by madrasah students, now house workshops where local artisans practice traditional crafts such as weaving, gold embroidery, wood carving, and embossing, keeping alive the spirit of creativity and craftsmanship that has been a hallmark of Margilan for centuries.
Situated within a square courtyard, the madrasah features a mosque, while the courtyard itself is surrounded by rows of lancet arches, typical of such buildings, leading to rooms known as khujras, where students used to live and study. Today, these khujras house workshops of local artisans, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional crafts. One can explore the ancient art of silk production in detail here, and there is also a shop selling silk products.
Admission is free, allowing visitors to freely explore the premises. The spacious inner courtyard features a channel of flowing water and is adorned with mature chinar trees and even palms, creating a serene and picturesque setting.
Please note that the madrasah may not always be open to the public, so it’s advisable to check the opening hours in advance to avoid disappointment.