KI-IJP-007-010-0045_02

Paper with two photographs affixed to it of building no.54: al-Karimiyya Madrasa. From Mamluk Jerusalem book, chapter 15, pp. 211-218. 
The Madrasa al-Karimiyya, located in the Old City of Jerusalem, was founded during the Mamluk period (1260–1516), a time marked by increased construction of religious institutions following political stability achieved after key victories over the Mongols (1260) and Crusaders (1291). This era encouraged state officials and patrons to establish religious endowments, contributing to Jerusalem’s development as a major Islamic centre.
Built in 1319 by the statesman Karim al-Din Abd al-Karim during the reign of Sultan al-Nasir Muhamad ibn Qalāwūn, the madrasa is situated near Bab Hitta (Gate of Remission) along the northern boundary of al-Haram al-Sharif. Much of its historical and architectural information comes from medieval historians al-Umari and Mujir al-Din.
Architecturally, the madrasa features a two-story structure organized around a small central courtyard, with an inverted T-shaped layout formed by a main hall, an iwan, and adjoining spaces. It includes a vestibule, multiple rooms, and an assembly hall bordering the Haram. Some features were modified during the Ottoman period, and parts of the original structure are no longer accessible or have changed over time.
Overall, the Madrasa al-Karimiyya reflects the architectural and religious flourishing of Jerusalem under Mamluk rule following a period of regional stability.