One of the Registan Square trio of madrassahs. This one was built in the 15th century and is dedicated to the astronomer Ulugbek. The madrassah entrance is adorned with patterns of ten-pointed stars symbolizing the sky, and astronomy.

The first building (early 15th century) on today's Registan is the Ulugh Begh Madrasah to the left (or the west). It was constructed by the order's of Amir Temur's grandson, Ulugh Beg, a Timurid Sultan as well, but also known for his interest in science, especially astronomy. A testimony for it is the Observatory in Samarkand, that carries his name. The Madrasah is a magnificent edifice with a high portal, a Pishtak, that leads to a square courtyard, surrounded by former students cells and class rooms (Darskhona) in the corners. In the middle of the walls are so-called Iwans. The decorations at the whole edifice have floral and geometric patterns, while the minarets are topped by Muqarna's. 200 years later was built another Madrasah, the Sher-Dor, just opposite, after the for Central Asia typical Kosh principle in architecture. Shortly after that a third Madrasah, the Tilya Kori, to the north was added, now forming that fantastic ensemble of the Registan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001.

The Ulug Bek Madrasa is the oldest extant building, in the Registan Square. It was built by the astronomer king Ulug Bek in 1417. Ulug Bek was an enlightened ruler and was particularly interested in astronomy and scholarship. He believed that learning was an act of reverence towards Allahs creation. His designs meant that he adhered to Islams injunction of representations of living beings. Instead, as with most madrasas, they took the form of geometric patterns and calligraphic motifs. Ulug Bek, for his time, did slightly push the boundaries with his designs. This is evident around the facade of the main door. There are representations of celestial objects, a definite nod to his love of astronomy. As you can tell, I was definitely impressed by him and his designs. An amazing building with so much history.

Be sure not to miss this must-see site in Samarkand. Like all of the others in this beautiful city, it is lovely, serene, and incredibly affordable. We went there with a little one and he loved running up and down all of the steps and ramps.