Imagine stepping back to the late 16th century right here at the Siyavuş Paşa Medresesi. This building stands as a testament to a powerful man’s love and legacy. Siyavuş Paşa, a grand vizier during the reign of Murad III, commissioned this medrese in 1580. It was dedicated to his wife, Fatma Sultan, daughter of Selim II. Sadly, she passed away during childbirth that same year.
The Siyavuş Paşa Medresesi is also known as Hoca Hamza Medresesi. This is because of its location behind the Hoca Hamza Mosque. Another name is Deveoğlu Medresesi. It got this name from the Deveoğlu fountain opposite.
Notice how the Siyavuş Paşa Medresesi is positioned. It stands firmly against the slope of Odunkapı Yokuşu, leading down to the Golden Horn. Because of the sloping land, the medrese rises on a basement that gains height towards the west.
Look closely at the medrese’s design. The irregular shape of the land meant the architect had to be creative. The plan doesn’t follow a standard layout. It presents a unique solution to the challenges of the terrain. It is believed that Davud Ağa, a prominent architect of the time, designed it.
Originally, the Siyavuş Paşa Medresesi had 14 rooms. The classroom is at the end of the rows of cells on the east side. Student cells line three sides of the courtyard. The courtyard’s plan is not a regular square. It is more of a trapezium.
Sadly, the porticoes are gone. So we cannot be sure of their original appearance. But based on remaining clues, it’s likely they had a wooden roof, similar to the Şemsi Paşa Medresesi.
The general layout has the classroom and six adjacent cells facing the qibla. The wall curves westward and accommodates two more cells. Five cells in this row are partially buried due to the slope. They lack windows on the south wall.
The courtyard of the Siyavuş Paşa Medresesi has lost its fountain. However, its historical texture and beauty still captivate visitors.
Interestingly, the Siyavuş Paşa Medresesi once housed many students. In 1792, records show 33 students were studying here. By 1869, that number had grown to 57. Even in 1914, 20 students were still enrolled.
Over time, the cells of the Siyavuş Paşa Medresesi were rented out as workshops due to the area’s commercial nature. Today, the Siyavuş Paşa Medresesi serves as the Hilye-i Şerif and Rosary Museum. You can visit every day except Tuesday from 10:00 to 17:00.
The Siyavuş Paşa Medresesi offers a glimpse into Ottoman architecture. It reflects the architectural techniques and styles of its time. It is a journey into the past.