The Architectural Design of Seljuk Schools in the City of Konya (The Saraclı School as a Model)

Abstract

The integration of science and religion is embodied in the schools established in Konya. These schools combined the desire to disseminate knowledge and strengthen its foundations with a keenness to showcase the architectural beauty of Muslims. Seljuk schools combined the religious system, represented by the architectural elements adopted in mosques, such as the mihrab and minaret, with the educational character centered on classrooms designed to provide complete comfort for students and teachers. This is evident in our case study, the Saraclı Madrasa. The madrasa's name derives from the abundance of its ceramic decorations, which distinguished it from other Seljuk madrasas in Konya. Several artistic styles were used to decorate the interior walls of the madrasa, including hexagonal ceramic tiles, ceramic mosaics, and glazed bricks.