description Sher Dor Mosque Overview
Located on the Registan square in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, the Sher Dor Mosque is a 17th-century Islamic religious school built between 1619 and 1636. Commissioned by the Shaybanid governor Yalangtush Bahadur, it was designed to mirror the older Ulugh Beg Madrasa across the square. The structure is distinguished by its large pishtaq archway, which features mosaic depictions of rising suns behind tiger-like lions, a rare departure from traditional Islamic geometric tilework.
help Sher Dor Mosque FAQ
Where is the Sher Dor Mosque located?
The Sher Dor Mosque is prominently located on the historic Registan square in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. It originally functioned as a 17th-century Islamic religious school, also known as a madrasa.
Who commissioned the Sher Dor Mosque and when was it built?
The construction of the mosque took place between 1619 and 1636, overseen by the Shaybanid governor Yalangtush Bahadur. It was built to serve as both a prominent place of worship and an educational center.
Why was the Sher Dor Mosque designed to mirror the Ulugh Beg Madrasa?
The architect designed it to symmetrically reflect the older Ulugh Beg Madrasa located directly across the square. This created a stunning, mathematically balanced architectural ensemble on the Registan.
What distinctive features are found on the facade of the Sher Dor Mosque?
The mosque is famous for its mosaic tigers and deer with suns on their backs, which flank the main entrance arch. This is highly unusual in Islamic architecture, which traditionally avoids the depiction of living animals.
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