Sher-Dor Madrasah

Sher-Dor Madrasah

The "Abode of Lions" was built between 1619 and 1636. True to its name, the facade depicts lions hunting gazelles under a rising sun. However, the pattern on the lions' coats more closely resembles that of a tiger. Interestingly, Islamic tradition generally prohibits depictions of humans and animals, making this an unusual deviation from the rules.

At the center of the entrance portal is a solar symbol, while above it, Arabic calligraphy proclaims, "The Lord is Almighty!" To the left of the entrance, according to legend, lies the tomb of butcher Khoja Muhammad Katongu, who fed the madrasah’s builders for nearly ten years free of charge.