Ashrafi Mahal in Mandu

Built between the years , the structure of Ashrafi Mahal is situated right in front of the Jami Masjid. It is said to have been a Sanskrit University initially, during the time of Raja Bhoj in 1024. However, when Mandav was taken over by the Sultans and Hoshang Shah ascended the throne, he turned it into a Persian University. This was India's first and the world's fourth Persian University. Right after Hoshang Shah, Mahmud Shah came into power and during his rule, the kingdom of Mandav was at its peak. Before his death, he wanted a grand tomb for himself. The design of this building, therefore, was changed and the courtyard was turned into a tomb.