Have you ever seen a building so beautiful it looks like it’s touching the sky? The Gökmedrese Sky Madrasa in Sivas, Turkey, is just that! Built in 1271, this ancient school shines with bright blue tiles and tall towers called minarets. Let’s explore the best time to visit this magical place and how to get to Sky Madrasa!
What Makes Gökmedrese Special?
Gökmedrese means “Blue Madrasa” because of its stunning sky-blue tiles. Long ago, it was a school where students learned about science, religion, and art. Today, people visit to admire its carvings, towers, and peaceful courtyard. Don’t forget to look for animal carvings and star patterns on the walls – they tell stories from the past 17!
How to Get to Gökmedrese Sky Madrasa
First, you’ll need to travel to Sivas, a city in central Turkey. Here’s how:
- By Plane: Fly into Sivas Airport from big cities like Istanbul or Ankara. From the airport, take a taxi or bus to the city center (about 20 minutes).
- By Bus or Train: Buses and trains run daily to Sivas from cities across Turkey. The ride from Ankara takes 6–7 hours.
- Local Transport: Once in Sivas, the madrasa is easy to find! It’s in the heart of the city, near other famous spots like Buruciye Medrese. Ask a local for directions or take a short taxi ride.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–June)
Spring is perfect! The weather is warm (10–20°C), and flowers bloom around the courtyard. Mornings are great for photos because the sunlight makes the blue tiles sparkle 17.
Summer (July–August)
Summer days are hot (up to 30°C), so visit early or late to avoid the sun. You’ll have more daylight to explore!
Autumn (September–October)
Autumn brings cool weather and golden leaves. Fewer crowds mean you can take your time admiring the carvings.
Winter (November–March)
Winter is cold and snowy, but the madrasa looks like a fairy tale! Just bundle up and check if it’s open – snow sometimes closes the site 1.
Fun Things to Do
- Take Photos: The blue tiles and towers look amazing at sunrise or sunset.
- Explore Nearby: Visit the Çifte Minareli Madrese, another 13th-century school with twin towers 3.
- Taste Local Food: Try madımak, a tasty herb stew, at nearby restaurants!
Tips for Your Trip
- Check for Updates: Gökmedrese has been restored many times. Before visiting, check if it’s open 6.
- Weekdays Are Quieter: Go on a Tuesday or Wednesday to avoid crowds.
Now that you know how to get to Sky Madrasa, it’s time to plan your adventure! For an easy trip, join a guided tour in Sivas. Tours often include Gökmedrese, nearby landmarks, and fun facts from friendly guides. Click here to find tours that make your visit unforgettable!