Karaman Hatuniye/Melek Hatun Medresesi

Abstract

Karaman Hatuniye Madrasah is a building which was constructed in Karamanid principality period. This building was constructed in the center of Karaman. The madrasah is located in Imaret Street. In sources, the name of this building is referred to as Hatuniye Madrasah in referrence to its constructor. The madrasah has its construction, artist inscriptions and deed. The constructor of this building is specified on the inscriptions and deed. The constructor of the building is Melek Khatun, the daughter of Ottoman Sultan Murad Hüdavendigar. Melek Khatun is also the wife of Alaaddin Bey, the Karamanid ruler. The Madrasah was built in 1381-1382. Karaman Hatuniye Madrasah is a one-storey building with a rectangle shape, an open courtyard which is in two ways and two iwans. The entrance is emphasized by keeping the crown gate protruded and higher than the main walls. The main iwan of the building is constructed in the opposite of the entrance and as the biggest iwan. Covering units with dome is an innovative perception at the time. In Karamanids period, decoration is gathered in some points. In this building, crown gate, iwans and entrance gates of the domed rooms which are located in the both sides are decorated well. As the continuity of Seljuks, motives which were used in early period buildings are based on herbal patterns.