Caravanserai: a palace on the Silk Road

The Silk Road was a well-established trade route that originated in China, passed through numerous countries, crossed the Anatolian region, and extended into present-day Iran and Syria. It’s hard to imagine how traders and travelers managed such long journeys, but you can glimpse a small part of that world through one of its key features: caravanserais. Though these may seem like usual inns, they were much more than that – they were grand palaces on the Silk Road, serving as oases for travelers, their camels and horses.

What exactly is a caravanserai, this enchanting oriental place? Where do these fascinating structures come from? How were they designed, what amenities did they offer their guests, and where can you still find remarkable examples of these historic buildings in Turkey and beyond? At Istanbulpoints.com we have all the answers.

The History of Caravanserai

Caravanserais were most actively built during the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, strategically placed along intercity roads frequented by caravans. In times of peace, they served as public inns, while during turbulent periods, these buildings were repurposed for military use.

Since they were designed primarily for caravans, their locations were carefully calculated based on the distance an average caravan could travel in a day – about 7 to 8 hours or 30 kilometers. Caravanserais were typically spaced 25 to 35 kilometers apart. However, this distance varied depending on the importance of the road; key routes had more frequent stops, while secondary roads had fewer. For instance, on the 195-kilometer route between Sivas and Kayseri, there were 24 caravanserais, including those within Sivas itself – indicating how bustling this path was in past centuries.

Caravanserais were first introduced in Anatolia in the 11th century. They were initially simple, rectangular structures with open courtyards surrounded by galleries. Over time, these buildings became larger and more sophisticated, reflecting the growing demand for accommodations as trade intensified. By the 12th century, when Anatolia under Seljuk rule emerged as a hub of international trade, caravanserais took on significant economic importance. Their construction was often commissioned and funded by sultans, viziers, or other prominent statesmen.

Evliya Çelebi offers a glimpse into how caravanserais functioned: «The arriving caravan must enter the caravanserai before the evening call to prayer, or Ezan, that is, before nightfall. Exceptions were made but only for caravans accompanied by a recognized guide. Caravans were not allowed to leave until the morning call to prayer. Before departure, a herald would ensure no items were missing or lost; if anything was reported missing, the gates remained closed until the matter was resolved. Guests of all nationalities could be found in caravanserais. Some offered free lodging for three to seven days, while others always charged a fee. Larger caravanserais had special rooms reserved for the sultan, his viziers, or distinguished guests.»

The Silk Road’s influence on the development of roads and caravanserais cannot be overstated. Stretching from Xi’an in China through Turkmenistan, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and much of Turkey, it continued into Iran and reached the port of Latakia (formerly Lazkiy) in Syria.

In Anatolia, the Silk Road branched into three main routes: the southern route passed through Cizre and Hasankeyf; the central route through Doğubayazıt, Erzurum, Erzincan, and Sivas; and the northern route through Kars and Trabzon. During the Seljuk era, the road through Erzurum, Erzincan, Tokat, Amasya, Sinop, and Kastamonu extended to the Black Sea coast. In contrast, the southern road passed through Bitlis, Malatya, Kayseri, Kırşehir, Konya, and Isparta before reaching Antalya’s Mediterranean ports. The farthest southern point was the Khan Caravanserai, located in today’s Denizli district, Antalya. From there, caravans traveled 20 to 30 kilometers to the Meander River and onwards to Aegean Sea ports.

This extensive road network was supported by a strong central administration that ensured security. For example, caravanserais in unstable regions housed small military garrisons and arsenals. On some routes, caravans were required to pay tolls, such as the 13th-century Erzurum route, where taxes on pack animals funded patrols for protection.

Notably, caravanserais outside city walls were free, while those within cities charged fees for both entry and exit. Importantly, they welcomed all guests, regardless of nationality or religion.

The Origin of the Caravanserai

The earliest precursors to khans and caravanserais were ribats – fortified structures in Islamic architecture, typically located along land or sea borders to serve as observation and control points. These ribats were walled complexes that included a courtyard, covered rooms, sheds, barns, and an observation tower.

Initially, ribats were designed as places for guarding borders and providing rest for horses and riders before military operations. Positioned strategically along the boundaries of territories, these buildings played a critical role in early Islamic defense systems. Over time, temporary shelters gave way to permanent ones, which were sometimes even referred to as fortresses, or kule.

Ribats are also mentioned in the Quran as places where warriors prepared for battle: “A place where horsemen, ready to fight the infidels, tie their horses” (Surah Al-Anfal: 60).

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of the first ribat, the predecessor of the caravanserai. However, historical accounts suggest that the earliest ribats, functioning as border posts, appeared during the reign of Caliph Omar (634–644). One such ribat is said to have been built by the architect Uqba ibn Nafi.

As state borders shifted over time, the role of ribats expanded beyond military purposes. They gradually evolved into accommodation facilities, serving as vital transshipment points for traders and travelers.

Among the earliest examples of caravanserais are the Ribat-i Sharaf in Iran and the Khan Murjan in Baghdad, Iraq.

Ribat-I Sharaf

Ribat-i Sharaf, located along the Nishapur (Iran)–Merv (Turkmenistan) route of the Silk Road, is one of the oldest known ribats. Now surrounded by desert, it is believed to have been built in 1088 by the architect Sharaf al-Din Abu Tahir ibn Sa’d al-Din ibn Ali. The name of the main builder, Abu’l-Qasim, is inscribed on the facade of the structure.

Khan Murjan

Khan Murjan, another remarkable example, is situated in the heart of Baghdad on the eastern bank of the Tigris River. Built in 1358 under the direction of Emin al-Din Murjan Ulukaya, the governor of Baghdad, it stands as a testament to the grandeur of caravanserai architecture.

In 2023, the Khan Murjan building underwent meticulous restoration. Care was taken to preserve its historical integrity, with materials chosen to match those used in the original construction. Today, visitors can admire this beautifully restored piece of history, a reminder of the enduring legacy of the caravanserai.

The Structure of the Caravanserai

By the 11th century, as the borders of the Seljuk state shifted, many ribats that were located on the outskirts of the empire found themselves within its interior regions. Those near new trade routes began to be repurposed to accommodate travelers.

The evolution of caravanserais as an architectural type owes much to both the Silk Road and the Arab ribats, which first appeared in Persia and Central Asia. Over time, the Turks, who had converted to Islam, adopted this building concept and adapted it to suit their needs and interpretations.

A caravanserai resembled a small fortress, constructed from hewn stone with high walls and sometimes small towers. The name itself, Kervansaray, originates from the Persian words «kârban» (caravan) and «saray» (palace), directly translating to “palace for caravans.” The term khan, also frequently associated with these buildings, comes from the Persian خان (xān). However, khan more accurately refers to places used for living and trading within cities rather than inns located on major trade routes away from urban areas.

Caravanserais were designed to accommodate both the travelers and their caravans with a level of comfort and convenience. Alongside food, water, and drinks, travelers could access hammams, prayer rooms (mesjits), local pharmacists, doctors, and even hairdressers. Animal feed was available, and some caravanserais even had veterinarians and cowherds on hand. Poor travelers were sometimes provided with shoes. These establishments served as oases where weary travelers could rest safely and with relative comfort after their arduous journeys.

In winter, despite reduced trade activity, caravanserais continued to operate. Animals and people shared a sheltered space, with travelers occupying the upper tiers while animals remained below.

The rooms of these «palaces for caravans» were illuminated by daylight through windows similar to those in fortresses – wide on the inside and narrowing outward to allow for easy observation of the surroundings while appearing as small slits from the outside. The interiors often featured domes, which facilitated light and air circulation, while their conical shapes made the structures visible from a distance. Some caravanserais even had heating systems, such as stoves or tandoor ovens.

Sultan khans need a special mention as these were luxurious caravanserais built to accommodate sultans, viziers, or other high-ranking guests. These structures were effectively roadside palaces, designed to offer exceptional comfort and grandeur.

Most caravanserais featured a spring or well, often located in the middle of an open courtyard. Those near lakes gained an additional advantage, as water was a critical and difficult resource for travelers and their animals.

Over time, the structure of caravanserais became standardized, typically including summer and winter quarters, rooms for overnight stays and rest, hammams, prayer rooms, a doctor’s office and pharmacy, dining rooms, storage spaces, and sometimes even a cobbler.

The upkeep, repairs, and overall management of caravanserais were typically overseen by a fund (vakıf) to make certain that these vital establishments remained operational for generations.

Caravanserai in Turkey

Sarihan (Sarıhan-Saruhan, Avanos)

Sarihan Caravanserai, also known as the «Yellow Caravanserai,» is one of Turkey’s most remarkable and well-preserved examples of Seljuk-era architecture. Located in the Cappadocia region, near the town of Avanos, this stunning structure invites travelers to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Silk Road.
The History of Sarihan

Built in 1249 during the reign of the Seljuk Sultan Kayqubad I, Sarihan Caravanserai reflects the era’s architectural brilliance and the importance of Cappadocia as a major trade hub. Its name, «Sarihan,» comes from the yellowish hue of the stones used in its construction. Situated strategically on the Anatolian trade routes, Sarihan served as a safe haven for merchants, pilgrims, and their caravans.

As with other caravanserais, Sarihan was funded and maintained by a vakıf, so that it remained a vital stopover for centuries. It played a major role in facilitating commerce and cultural exchange along the Silk Road. Over time, as trade routes shifted and modern transportation emerged, the caravanserai gradually lost its original purpose but retained its historical and cultural significance.

Architectural Features

Sarihan’s design showcases the typical Seljuk architectural style, blending functionality with artistic elegance. The structure is built with high, fortified walls, giving it the appearance of a small fortress. Its main entrance, a monumental portal, is adorned with intricate stone carvings, geometric patterns, and Arabic inscriptions, showcasing the craftsmanship of Seljuk stonemasons.

Inside, Sarihan features a spacious open courtyard surrounded by covered arcades and rooms. These rooms, once used as accommodations for travelers and storage for goods, exhibit thick stone walls to provide insulation against the region’s hot summers and cold winters. The central courtyard often housed a fountain or water source, essential for the comfort of both travelers and animals.

Sarihan also includes a mescit (prayer room), a hammam (bathhouse), and communal dining areas. These facilities highlight the caravanserai’s role as a multifunctional space, catering to both the physical and spiritual needs of its guests.

Sarihan Today

Today, Sarihan Caravanserai has been carefully restored and is open to visitors, offering a glimpse into the Silk Road’s vibrant past. One of its most popular attractions is the Whirling Dervish ceremonies held in its main hall. These mystical performances, inspired by the teachings of Rumi, transport spectators to another time and provide a spiritual connection to Anatolia’s rich cultural heritage.

Sarihan stands as a testament to the Seljuk era’s ingenuity and hospitality. Whether visiting to admire its architectural beauty, learn about its historical significance, or witness a traditional dervish ceremony, Sarihan Caravanserai continues to enchant and inspire all who pass through its gates.

The decaying historical Sarihan Caravanserai was leased in 1991 by a private firm under a 49-year agreement, marking a significant turning point in its preservation. The firm undertook a meticulous restoration process, carefully maintaining the building’s original appearance and intricate decorations while ensuring its structural stability. This restoration effort transformed Sarihan into a shining example of Seljuk-era architecture, safeguarding its legacy for future generations.

Today, Sarihan Caravanserai is open to visitors, offering a unique opportunity to explore its rich history and timeless beauty. It serves as a cultural and historical attraction where guests can immerse themselves in the world of the Silk Road, marvel at the restored details, and experience the enduring charm of this iconic structure.

Alay Han — Pervane Ribatı, Aksaray

The Alaykhan caravanserai was built in the 12th century by the Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Kilich Arslan on the world famous Silk Road. It is assumed that it was built earlier than the era of Alaeddin Keykubat the First, by Zahyuriddin Pervane (which is why it was originally named Ribat Pervane), the son of Yaybasan Bey of the Danyshmendoullary family.

Located 34 kilometers from Aksaray, the inn was built on an area of about 2000 sq.m. This is one of the earliest caravanserais built in Anatolia. Alay Khan is still used for tourist purposes. During the Seljuk period, it was called Ribat Pervane (Pervane Ribatı).The name Alaykhan was given later, probably because of the nearby settlement.

Alaykhan attracts attention with an interesting image on the facade — the figure of a lion with one head and two bodies. This is the second example of a similar, rare image — lions can also be seen on the facade of Alai Khan. It is assumed that this was a symbol protecting the palace, as well as personifying the power of the one who initiated its construction. That is why he is depicted with a double body — as a sign of double power.

In the Anatolian culture, like many others, the image of a lion symbolized strength, power, sovereignty, and a variety of materials were used to depict the figures — stone, marble, wood, images were embroidered on carpets, and also made in the form of miniatures.

This caravanserai usually attracts the attention of travelers passing along the Nevsehir-Aksaray highway heading to or from Cappadocia. It is perfectly visible, therefore, there is an opportunity to stop and admire the historical place in the immediate vicinity.

Öresin Han — Tepesi Delik Han, Aksaray

The caravanserai is located on the Aksaray-Nevsehir road (Cappadocia), at a distance of 21 km from Aksaray. It is an architectural object of rectangular shape, covered with transverse and longitudinal barrel vaults. Four columns located along one of the narrow walls of the building form five naves. At the intersection of the central longitudinal and transverse naves in the middle of the building there is a lighthouse covered with a dome. The walls of the building were made of rubble stone and faced with hewn stone. Rosettes were used as decorations on the columns, but very few of them have been preserved at the moment.

There is no accurate information about the building, the main gate and the facade of which have been destroyed for a long time. There are suggestions that the caravanserai could have been built in the period from 1264 to 1283.

The entrance and facade of the building have completely collapsed, and the remaining parts are in a very dilapidated condition. It is used as a pen for animals by residents of nearby villages. The hewn stones that lined the collapsed walls have long disappeared.

Ağzıkarahan — Hoca Mesut Ribatı, Aksaray

Located on the 15th kilometer of the Aksaray-Nevsehir highway, Aghzykarahan is mentioned in Ottoman sources as Khoja Mesut Ribat. Its construction was started by Aladdin Keykubat in 1231 and completed by Giyaseddin Keykhusrev in 1239. On the portal of the caravanserai you can see the ornaments — the distinctive features of the architecture of the Seljuk period.

The name of the attraction from Turkish means «Black mouth» and there is an explanation for this. In the past, those who copied books were called blasphemers. Calligraphers always had a black mouth, as they corrected misspelled words by bringing their fingers to their mouth and quickly licking them. Naturally, there were traces of ink on the lips, which were removed with great difficulty.

Aghzykarakhan is a full-fledged caravanserai with a hamam, a dining room, summer and winter spaces, a spring, a watchtower, and a mosque. This caravanserai also combines the functions of a fortified military castle and a shelter.

Sultanhan, Aksaray

Sultan Khan is located 45 kilometers from Aksaray (Cappadocia). The caravanserai was built in 1229 by the Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Aladdin Keykubat I. In 1278, the Anatolian Seljuk ruler Giyaseddin Keykhusrev significantly expanded it. The central part of the architectural landmark stands out with a magnificent portal decorated with geometric shapes. The caravanserai is similar in structure and features to the Gök Madrasah in Sivas.

Just below the pointed arch, the prayer «El-Minnetü Lillah» («The thankfulness to Allah») is inscribed. Entering the main gate of the caravanserai and passing through a long corridor, you can get to the courtyard. In the center of it there is a mosque supported by four arches, one of the best examples of decorative art of the Seljuks. Warehouses, hamams and other utility rooms have also been built here.

Obrukhan, Konya

Obrukhan is located 75 kilometers from Konya, near the village of Obruk. Obruk in Turkish is a cliff / failure. The Karvan-sarai stands in the immediate vicinity of the crater lake, resembling a sinkhole filled with water, which is why the name of the lake also received a Hoop (Obruk).

On this stretch of the Silk Road, Sultan Khan is located before Obrukhan, and after that — Zazadin Khan. Most likely, there should have been another caravan stop point between Obrukhan and Zazadin Khan, otherwise the distance turned out to be rather long (50 km).

No specific inscriptions or data on when and who specifically built the caravanserai have been found. The Obruk area has been considered quite important since the 13th century and has been repeatedly mentioned in various historical texts. For example, before ascending the throne, Alaeddin Keykubat, traveling between Kayseri and Konya, visited this place — the settlement of Obruk, where he was greeted with honors. And in 1261, the commander of the Mongol troops, Baiju Noyan, moving towards Konya, mentions Obruk Khan, which was on his way. This suggests that by 1261 the caravanserai was already functioning, and according to assumptions, it was built at the beginning of the 13th century.

This is one of the largest caravanserais — the area of the open part is about 1140 square meters, and the closed part is 1026 square meters.

In 2020, the building was renovated, and the surrounding area was improved.

Zazadin — Sadeddin Köpek Hanı, Konya

It was built 22 kilometers from Konya, on the initiative of Saadettin Kopek, vizier of the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat. Initially, he was named Saadettin Khan.

It is worth saying a few words about who Saadettin Kopek was, who gave the decree to build such a large caravanserai.

According to the inscriptions on the khan’s wall (kitabe), he was the son of Muhammad, whose date and place of birth are unknown, while he became one of the most important statesmen in the history of the Seljuks. Saadettin Kopek was a translator and participant in important state negotiations, a good commander; an employee capable of efficiently organizing the process of building construction, and also became known as a professional intriguer. Sources mention that until his death in 1238, Saadettin was the second most influential person at the state level. He served first under Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat, and then under his son, Gyaseddin Keykhusrev XI, which totaled 27 years.

During the construction of this caravanserai, which is quite large in area, materials taken from the ruins of the Roman and Byzantine periods were used. These elements are visible on the walls of the building. White marble was also used.

The caravanserai consisted of summer and winter parts, there was also a prayer room, 24 rooms, a hammam, a barn, and storage rooms.

It is one of the largest caravanserais of the Seljuk period in the region Konya — the area of its covered part is 2500 sq.m., and the open part is 1000 sq.m.

Today, the building is in excellent condition after extensive restoration.

Kızılören Hanı, Konya

Kyzyloren Khan was located on one of the sections of the Silk Road, on the Konya-Beishehir and Antalya segment. According to the inscription, it was built in 1206, during the time of Gyyaseddin Keykhyusrev, by Emir Kandemir. The name of the khan comes from the color of the stone from which it was built — «kızıl» — red, as well as from the reddish-colored earth characteristic of this area.

The road passing next to the khan also stretches to the historical fortress of Asarkale. In the process of exploring this fortress, traces of the Hittites, Byzantium and Seljuks were discovered — as often happens, everyone completed the fortress at their discretion.

A khoyuk (settlement) was discovered near the caravanserai Kyzyloren, whose history dates back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age.

The caravanserai consisted of a closed winter (about 440 sq.m.) and an open summer (612 sq.m.) parts, while the area of the building itself and all utility rooms is 1512 sq.m. The corner towers built into the facades of the building distinguish Kyzyloren from other caravanserais.

In the immediate vicinity of the caravanserai there was a Small Khan, which also dates back to the XIII century. It is assumed that the purpose of this khan was related to the post office.

Mübarizeddin Ertokuş caravanserai, Eğirdir

The caravanserai is located on the Egirdir — Konya road, near Egirdir lake. The approximate area of the building is 1200 sq.m., there is a small open area and covered rooms. It was far from the largest caravanserai, but it was quite standard — there were rooms for guests, a prayer room, places for animals and utility rooms. But, strangely enough, during the excavation, the place of the source of drinking water was not established. There was also no hammam on the territory, and, probably, the need for water procedures was covered by Egirdir lake.

The inscription above the entrance says: «In the name of the Sultan .. It was built by Mubarizeddin Ertokuş in 620 (1223).»

In 2004, excavations were carried out on the territory of the historical building, as a result of which, at the entrance, in the open part of the caravanserai on the right side, various nails used for horseshoes, as well as parts of horseshoes intended for cattle, were found. This is a confirmation that koval’s room was also part of the complex.

Çardak Han — Hanabat, Denizli

The Chardak caravanserai was located on a part of the trade route going from Dinar (Afyonkarakhisar) towards Egirdir and further to Konya. It was the second transit point on the Dinar-Egirdir road, after the Akhan caravanserai.

Above the main entrance door, in the upper part, you can see the figures of two lions and inscriptions between them. According to them, we can say that the khan was built during the time of Sultan Alaaddin Keykubad, by Eseduddin Ayaz bin Abdullah esh-Shihabi in 1230.

During the First World War and the Liberation War, the building was used to store food and supplies. In 2006, excavations were carried out on the territory of the historical building under the direction of the Denizli Museum. This allowed us to get an idea of the khan’s structure and its premises, to free some parts of it from the rubble of the earth, which played a big role in its subsequent restoration.
According to the excavations, it was found that the caravanserai had open and covered parts, a rather large hammam, a kitchen with a kind of oven, a prayer room, and guest rooms. The area of the covered part was about 570 sq.m.

Today, you can look at the restored khan on the way to Lake Ajigel (Acıgöl).

Akhan, Antalya

Akhan is located 7 kilometers from the Denizli district of Antalya. The building was erected on the initiative of Izzetin Keykavuz in the period from 1253 to 1254, and the architect was Emir Seifeddin Karasungur. This caravanserai consisted of both open and hidden parts, with a total area of 1,245 square meters.

The difference between this caravanserai is the interior decoration of the courtyard — there are motifs of plants and animals (lion, dog, bull, deer, goat, etc., a total of 16 pieces), as well as 2 human figures. There are practically no such khans, but Karatai Khan is the most similar to Akhan in terms of such decoration with figures.

Given the architecture and structure of this building, it is attributed to Sultan Khan, that is, to those caravanserais that could also serve the Seljuk sultans.

Alara Han, Alanya

Alara Khan is located 37 kilometers from Alanya and 800 meters from the fortress of Alara, on the banks of the river of the same name. It was built in the time of Alaeddin Keykubad, in the 13th century (1231-32). This is the first caravanserai on the part of the Silk Road, on the fork running from Konya to Alanya (which at that time was named Alaniyye or Alaye — Alâniyye/Alâiye).

The area of the stone building is 2000 sq. m., the central part was intended for guests whose rooms opened onto the main corridor. Despite the fact that it was also one of the Sultan Khans, it differed in its layout from all the others. If you look at the building from above, it will be noticeable that earlier, the main corridor in the middle, which is quite narrow, was also open from above (today it is glazed). While most caravanserais have a fairly spacious courtyard in the middle.

As in many cases, it is assumed that this khan was originally built as a ribat, which was intended to stop and rest the Sultan with his army on the way from Konya to Alanya (Alaye).