Mahmudiye Medresesi

The Ottoman Empire adopted the construction of educational institutions in Mecca and Medina as a state policy, acting as the protector of Hijaz. In this context, various madrasas were established around the Prophet's Mosque; these madrasas allowed both the local population and visitors coming during the pilgrimage season to continue their religious education. Mahmudiye Medresesi belongs to the period of Sultan Mahmud II and constitutes a part of the Ottoman educational heritage in Medina. It is understood that the madrasa is mentioned in records from H. 1238 / M. 1822-23 and was built or restored at that time. Sultan Mahmud II, while being a sultan who initiated modernization efforts in many areas, continued to support educational and scientific institutions in the holy lands. [Source: "Mahmud II", TDV Islamic Encyclopedia, https://islamansiklopedisi.org.tr/mahmud-ii; "Mescid-i Nebevî", TDV Islamic Encyclopedia, https://islamansiklopedisi.org.tr/mescid-i-nebevi]