Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasa

Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah is located on the historical peninsula of Istanbul, near the Grand Bazaar. It was built between 1707-1709 by Çorlulu Ali Pasha, one of the grand viziers of Ahmet III. The madrasah is one of the important building blocks of the Ottoman education system and was used as a science center in its time. Ali Pasha had this madrasah built both to provide a science center for the state and as his own resting area.

Who is Çorlulu Ali Pasha?

Çorlulu Ali Pasha was an important statesman during the Ottoman Empire. Ali Pasha, who served as grand vizier during the reign of Ahmet III, is known especially for his reformist and innovative approaches to state affairs. Çorlulu Ali Pasha was appointed as grand vizier in 1706 and contributed to important issues of the Ottoman Empire in a short time. One of the most important projects built during his period is this madrasah that bears his name. Ali Pasha designed the madrasah not only as an educational institution but also as a social and cultural center.

Architectural Features of Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah

The madrasah bears the traces of classical Ottoman architecture. It was built together with structures such as a mosque, social complex, library and madrasah. The madrasah rooms in the main courtyard were used for education in the past, but today they are mostly used by commercial enterprises. The building, which was restored in 1910 and 1965, has become a popular spot for students and tourists since the 1970s. It is especially famous for its hookah cafes and today welcomes local and foreign visitors.

The Change of the Madrasah Over Time

Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah lost its function during the stagnation period of the Ottoman Empire. It remained idle after the major earthquakes in 1766 and 1894, but was re-introduced to the city with restoration works carried out in 1961 and 1965. This historical structure, which was taken over by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism during the Republic period, is mostly used as a tea garden and hookah cafe today.

What to Do in Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah?

Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah has become one of the most popular social and cultural stops in Istanbul today. Hookah culture is one of the most well-known features of this madrasah. The hookah coffeehouses inside the madrasah serve as the current representatives of the traditional hookah culture of the Ottoman period. Visitors can experience the tobacco and hookahs served with different aromas here. In addition, this place, where Turkish coffee and tea are traditionally served, keeps the social interaction and conversation culture from the Ottoman period alive.

Hookah and coffee culture was one of the social gathering areas, especially for men, in the Ottoman period. Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah carries this tradition to the present day, offering a calm and historical atmosphere for those who want to get away from the fast pace of Istanbul. Visitors can both feel the historical texture and have a pleasant time in a social environment here.

How to Get to Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah?

The madrasah is located in the Mollafenari District of Istanbul, very close to the Grand Bazaar. It can be easily reached on foot via Beyazıt Square and Divanyolu Street. You can also reach Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah by using the Beyazıt Grand Bazaar tram stop with public transportation within the city. Today, it is one of the most visited structures in Istanbul as both a historical and social center.

Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah has an important place among the cultural riches of Istanbul with both its historical texture and modern use.

Places to Visit Near Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah

Covered Bazaar (Grand Bazaar): One of the oldest and largest covered bazaars in the world, the Grand Bazaar is within walking distance of Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah. You can find a wide range of products here, from antique dealers to carpet dealers.

Suleymaniye Mosque: One of the masterpieces of Mimar Sinan, this mosque is considered one of the pinnacles of Ottoman architecture. It is located very close to the madrasah.

Beyazıt Square: This historical square, which hosts Istanbul University, is an important central point from the Ottoman period together with the surrounding structures.

Nuruosmaniye Mosque: One of the important works of Ottoman Baroque architecture, this mosque is located near the Çorlulu Ali Pasha Madrasah and attracts attention with both its architecture and historical atmosphere.

Sultanahmet Square: Sultanahmet Square, the most well-known square on the historical peninsula of Istanbul, is a few minutes' walk from the madrasah. Historical structures such as Hagia Sophia and Topkapı Palace are located around this square.