Pure use of line and complex forms grace this madrasa, founded in 1235 by Saladin’s daughter-in-law and niece Dayfa Khatun. The fine dressed stone structure is centred on a rectangular courtyard, around three sides of which runs a gallery. The arches are separated from the capitals by wood dosserets, cleverly protecting against quake damage. Opposite the large iwan is a small prayer hall topped by three domes. Wide ribbon-banding emanates from the mihrab to cover the qibla wall with interwoven decoration.