The Twin Minaret Madrasah is a 13th-century Seljuk madrasah located on Cumhuriyet Street in central Erzurum. Built by Hüdavend Hatun, the structure has become a symbol of the city with its craftsmanship on the stone gate and its two minarets.
You might also hear the Twin Minaret Madrasah referred to as Hatuniye Madrasah. It was built by Hüdavend Hatun, daughter of Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat I, in the second half of the 13th century. Sources vary slightly on the construction date: some point to 1253, while others state that the building was completed in the last quarter of the century. This structure, which has become a symbol of Erzurum, is one of the most important examples among madrasahs with cut stone, two stories, four iwans, and an open courtyard.
The building measures approximately 35x46 meters, and its courtyard is around 26x10 meters. The stone carving on the stone gate immediately catches the eye; the entrance is the most magnificent facade of the structure in terms of both height and craftsmanship. Inside, the rooms are preserved with period-specific details, and a small miniature model is also exhibited at the end of the madrasah. On the lower floor, there is a tomb whose owner is not clearly known, and most visitors are curious about this section.
Today, the structure is open to visitors as a museum. Since it is in the city center, within walking distance of the Grand Mosque and the historical bazaar, most visitors to Erzurum stop here along with other historical sites. Visitor comments indicate that even during crowded times, there is no congestion inside, and the area in front of the stone gate is a preferred spot for photographs.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Erzurum historical places, Three Tombs.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
Erzurum's winters are long and cold, with frequent snowfall between October and April. The most suitable period to comfortably visit the madrasah is late spring to summer (May-September). As city tourism picks up in the summer months, your chances of encountering groups increase; going early in the morning helps avoid crowds.
How to Get There?
The madrasah is located in central Erzurum, near the intersection of Cumhuriyet Street and İnönü Boulevard, around Selçuk Park. For those staying in the city center, it's within walking distance; if you're coming from the bus station or airport, it's easily accessible by taxi or city dolmuşes. The Grand Mosque and historical bazaar are also nearby, so they can be visited on the same route.
How Much Time Should You Allocate?
Since the madrasah is not large, 30-45 minutes is sufficient. This time allows for viewing the stone craftsmanship on the stone gate, the rooms around the courtyard, and the tomb on the lower floor. Those who wish to explore in more detail without rushing can extend their visit up to an hour.
Other Stops in the Vicinity
It makes sense to visit the madrasah along the same route as Yakutiye Madrasah, the Grand Mosque, and the Three Tombs; all are close to the center and connected by short walks. The historical part of a one-day Erzurum tour can be completed with these four stops.
Good Spots for Photography
Directly opposite the stone gate is the busiest photo spot, where both the minarets and the stone carvings above the gate are framed. Shots taken looking up from inside the courtyard are also preferred to capture the height of the minarets.
Things to Pay Attention To
Some visitor comments indicate that staff do not allow entry if you arrive close to closing time; it's advisable not to go near the last entry hour. As it is a historical structure, take care not to damage the environment and be careful when touching the stones.
Things to Know About the Structure
The madrasah's name comes from the two minarets on either side of the stone gate. This structure in Erzurum is often confused with the Twin Minaret Madrasah in Sivas; both date back to the Seljuk period but were built in different cities and by different patrons. The structure in Erzurum is one of the most photographed historical artifacts in the city.
Twin Minaret Madrasah Videos
Twin Minaret Madrasah videos load when you open this section to keep the page fast.
Show videos
FAQ
Updated:
