Khusruwiyah Complex

The Khosrowiya Complex is one of the most significant Ottoman landmarks that has left an architectural and cultural imprint on the city of Aleppo. It was built on the orders of Khosrow Pasha, the governor of Aleppo during the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, and was designed by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan, one of the greatest architects of the Ottoman Empire. Construction began in 951 AH / 1544 AD and was completed in 953 AH / 1546-1547 AD.

The complex is located in the Safahiyah neighborhood, directly west of Aleppo Citidal, and was designed to serve as a comprehensive religious, educational, and charitable center. It includes a mosque, a school, a khanqah (a lodge for travelers), a public kitchen for feeding the poor, guest rooms, and a caravanserai for merchants and travelers.

The integrated design of the complex reflects the Ottoman vision that combines worship, education, and social service in one location. Throughout its history, the complex has undergone several restoration efforts, the most notable being by Khosrow Pasha, who restored the prayer hall. The school was also reopened through the efforts of the director of the endowments, Yahya al-Kayyali, and was dubbed The Azhar of Aleppo due to its academic significance.

Unfortunately, the Khosrowiya Complex suffered significant destruction during the Syrian conflict, being nearly completely demolished except for its northern section. This devastation represents a substantial architectural and cultural loss, as the complex embodies the convergence of Ottoman architectural art with religious and social functions, and its prominent role in the cultural and religious life of Aleppo.