Sivas

This patron was Muzaffer Burucerdi, and the school (completed in 1271) studied physics, chemistry and astronomy. The architect is unknown but it's in a square Seljuk style, with a courtyard surrounded by cells. These are windowless, so you'd sleep in them rather than study. It fell derelict in the 20th century but has been restored.

The second of the trio, this was built in 1272 by the Vizier of Ilkhanate, Şemseddin Mehmet Cüveyni. Only the monumental gatehouse and twin minarets survive of the original - Çifte means twin.

The third of the trio, this was built in 1271 by Vizier Sahip Ata Fahrettin Ali. The name means "celestial" or blue, for its tilework. It has an imposing gatehouse with twin minarets leading to a courtyard and cells, nowadays shops. The building originally had a second story, long gone.

An older madrassa, completed in 1217 in Seljuk style - so it set the standard that the later trio were aiming to surpass. It contained a hospital and medical school. Within is the tomb of its founder, Sultan Izeddin Keykavus I, and the medrassah tilework has been restored.

Built in 1580, it's a simple elegant building with a blessed stone for prayers for the recovery of lost items. Still it's wise to continue to take care of your bank cards, passports and youth.

Built in 1197, with the minaret added in 1213.

Museum of town life in the former governor's house. Signage is only in Turkish.

This former high school was where Atatürk consolidated his power base in 1919 and launched the struggle for independence. It now hosts three museum collections: congress with mementoes of that era, ethnography, and archeaology.