Sahn-ı Seman Medrese

At the eastern side of the complex is a hospital (dârüşşifâ) and a lunatic asylum (tabhâne) with a similar design to the medrese.

The students (called suhte or talebe) trained as scholars or for a career in the Ottoman administration.

During their studies, which took several years, the students received free accommodation and meals at the imaret (public charity kitchen) of the Fatih complex.

The medrese complex continued in use until 1924 when the new secular government of Turkey passed the Tevhid-i Tedrisat law in an effort to reduce Islamic education.

Today the medrese buildlngs are in a dilapidated state; four of the smaller ones were completely demolished after World War II to make way for a new road.

The medreses are visible next to the garden of the Fatih mosque.
The medreses are visible next to the garden of the Fatih mosque (large building in the middle) as the square courtyard buildings covered by dozens of small domes.