Abdaliye Madrasah is a complex consisting of a mosque, tomb, and madrasah cells built in the 15th century, adjacent to the city walls of Cizre; it houses the tomb where the love story of Mem-u Zin is told, containing the graves of one of the most famous works of Kurdish literature.
Abdaliye Madrasah stands adjacent to the city walls, in the northwest corner of the cemetery in Cizre's Dağkapı Neighborhood. Sources state its construction date as 1437; some local records indicate it was built by Cizre Bey Emir Abdal Ibn Abdillah Seyfettin Bohti. It was planned as a complex but largely destroyed over time: today, a mosque, a madrasah cell, an entrance unit opening to the courtyard, and an iwan remain.
The main attraction of the structure is the Mem-u Zin Tomb, located east of the mosque. This tomb, with a rectangular plan in an east-west direction and a pointed barrel vault, contains three graves: the star-crossed lovers Mem and Zin, and Bekir, who prevented their union. Ahmedî Hânî's 17th-century mesnevi, Mem û Zîn, tells this story, and it is the most discussed topic among visitors. Comments indicate that the tomb is frequently visited, and the graves hold an almost spiritual meaning among the public.
The structure has undergone restoration in the past, but some visitors say that covering the interior walls with plaster has damaged the original texture. The deeply recessed mihrab at the entrance is mentioned in comments as a striking detail. In recent years, news reported damage to the entrance gate wall due to neglect and lack of maintenance; it is advisable to check the current condition of the structure before visiting.
Guide's Note
What is Abdaliye Madrasah, and Why is it Important?
Built in 1437 by Cizre Bey Emir Abdal, this complex today consists of a mosque, tomb, a madrasah cell, courtyard entrance, and iwan. Since the structure is adjacent to the city wall, both religious and defensive architecture are seen together. Its main fame comes from the Mem-u Zin Tomb inside; the graves of one of the most famous love stories in Kurdish literature are here.
When to Visit?
Şırnak experiences harsh summers, and Cizre also gets its share of this heat. Spring and autumn months, before noon or in the late afternoon, can be preferred for a more comfortable visit. As it is an open-air area, planning according to seasonal conditions is necessary.
How to Get There?
The madrasah is located in Cizre's Dağkapı Neighborhood, within the cemetery area. It can be easily accessed from the city center by public transport; walking is also possible due to its proximity to the center. Transportation from Cizre bus station to the madrasah by taxi or local minibuses is short.
Visit Duration
Since the structure is small-scale, 20-30 minutes is sufficient. It makes sense to combine it with other historical sites in Cizre (such as city wall remnants, Ulu Mosque) and include it in a half-day city tour.
Where to Add it on a Cizre Trip?
Thanks to its central location, it becomes a natural part of a Cizre trip. Visitors recommend stopping here while exploring the city; a walk along the city walls and other historical graves in the cemetery (nearby points like Orhan Doğan Tomb) can be added to the itinerary.
Notable Spots for Photography
The recessed mihrab of the mosque and the interior of the tomb with its pointed barrel vault are among the most photographed details. The exterior facade, merging with the city wall, also offers an interesting shot for those seeking historical texture.
Things to Know Before Visiting
The structure has undergone restoration in the past, but some visitors state that covering the interior walls with plaster has obscured the original stone texture. Recently, damage around the entrance gate due to neglect has been reported; checking the current condition of the structure from local sources before visiting would be beneficial for both safety and expectations.
FAQ
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