Al-Kamiliyah Madrasa

The Madrasa al-Kamiliyya (Al-Kamiliyya School) represents a fine example of Ayyubid architecture from the 13th century AD (625-634 AH). Built by Fatima Khatun, daughter of King Al-Kamil and wife of King Muhammad al-Aziz, it was named after her father. Located outside the walls of the Ancient City of Aleppo, 300 meters from Bab al-Maqam, the school stands out for its distinctive architectural style, despite the absence of an inscription at its entrance. It is believed that King Muhammad al-Aziz’s death prevented its completion. Spanning an area of 800 square meters, the school features a rectangular layout with a square courtyard at its center, housing a pond. Its entrance is adorned with intricate muqarnas. Inside, a main iwan contains a mihrab, accompanied by three corridors—southern, eastern, and western—surrounded by several rooms that once accommodated students and travelers, where meals and refreshments were offered. Renowned for its distinctive stone domes, the school underwent restoration in 2010. Today, it continues to serve as an institute for memorizing the Holy Quran, preserving its legacy as a testament to Aleppo’s cultural and educational heritage.