Sultanhanı Caravanserai
Sultanhanı Caravanserai things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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I love to travel and have always been attracted by the local cultures and histories. During a recent trip to Turkey, I had the good fortune to come across the charming Sultanhan Kervansaray, a caravanserai that has been preserved and is situated in the Aksaray Province. I felt obligated to share my experience in this thorough assessment with other tourists and history buffs. When I first arrived at Sultanhan Kervansaray, the splendour of the building grabbed me. This caravanserai was constructed in the 13th century under the rule of the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I and served as a significant resting and trade location along the Silk Road. The exquisitely carved entrance portal, which is embellished with delicate geometric and floral motifs, is proof of the Seljuk craftsmen's superior skill. When I entered the courtyard, I was taken back in time to a time when tired travellers and traders sought sanctuary behind the caravanserai's sturdy walls. Arcades that originally used as stables, storage spaces and sleeping quarters border the large courtyard. The peaceful ambiance is enhanced by a modest mosque that is perched on a platform in the middle of the courtyard. Exploring the huge covered hall, or iwan, where travellers met to network and conduct business, was one of the pleasures of my trip. The hall has a number of enormous columns and arches that give the room a breath-taking sense of expanse. Further complementing the experience is the hall's almost supernatural feel created by the interaction of light and shadow. The site was in good shape the entire time I was there, the product of careful restoration efforts. Around the caravanserai, educational plaques offer helpful historical context that enhances visitors' understanding of the value of this old structure. Sultanhan Kervansaray, in addition to its historical appeal, provides contemporary conveniences including a small museum, a nice café, and clean facilities. My questions were gladly answered, and the helpful staff was pleased to share intriguing anecdotes about the history of the caravanserai. To sum up, Sultanhan Kervansaray is a must-visit location for everyone interested in learning more about Turkey's extensive history and soaking up the atmosphere of the old Silk Road. An extraordinary experience may be had at this caravanserai thanks to its outstanding architecture, well-preserved ruins, and historical ambience. I wholeheartedly advise making time to thoroughly explore this hidden gem, take in its ambience, and make lifelong memories.
Alessio AstolfiAlessio Astolfi
00
The people are the treasure anywhere we go in the world. This was most definitely the case when I showed up to this beautiful ancient center of civilization when I met my new friend @sezgnn_ & his little sister. They were just out for a stroll and happened to say hi. He is studying in Cyprus to be an architect and designer and actually played a big role in the preservation and rebuilding of this 800-year-old hub of civilization of the ancient Silk Road. His little sister is a real cutie pie and loves to play hide and seek. At first she was very shy but after a few minutes warmed up with her big ear-to-ear smile. She's a ball of energy and I love her to pieces 💜💝💞💕💓💗 Back in the day people would come here to trade spices, cattle, and other goods from all over the world. They were welcome to stay here for 3 days absolutely free of charge. There is a mosque in the middle and a huge stable in the back for livestock that is incredibly cold even though the temperatures outside here are insanely hot. This happens from the super thick stone the stable is made out of but also the way the pillars were designed trapped the cold air and force the hot air out. Inside the corners of the pillars are ancient holes that were used to tie livestock for the night before trading. Located an hour east of Konya Sultan Hani Caravanserai is the biggest masterpieces of the Seljuk Period without a doubt! This glorious structure was built by a grand architect Muhammad Bin Havlan El-Dimiski by the order of Anatolia Seljuk Sultan Aladdin Keykubat in between the years 1227 and 1229 🤩 One of the largest caravanserais in the world, Sultan Hani Caravanserai was made during the Seljuk Time in order to be used as an accommodation for the traveling people, especially merchants. What is really impressive to me was this place has been used as a defence for the silk road trade routes... This was the first insurance system in recorded history up to this time 🎉💰⚔️👮 Today you can see the ancient touches with a bit of modern restoration. Honestly walking through here feels like something out of "The Mummy" movies 😂🤣😂 Very impressive!
Nate AllenNate Allen
20
Visiting Sultanhanı Caravanserai was an unexpectedly magical experience for us. We stumbled upon it by chance while traveling from Konya to Cappadocia, and immediately felt like ancient wanderers who had found refuge and a place to rest. The place made a profound impression on us, and we were awestruck by its well-preserved grandeur. Entering through the impressive, intricately decorated gate felt like stepping back in time. Inside, the spacious courtyards and historic chambers transported us to another era, allowing us to envision the lives of travelers in the Middle Ages. One of the surprises was the interior of the caravanserai, where we had the opportunity to admire a fascinating collection of carpets. It was not just a historical experience for us but also a chance to learn about the culture and craftsmanship of the region. Sultanhanı Caravanserai is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a place to pause and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We highly recommend every traveler to stop by and experience its unique atmosphere and rich history.
Adam AdamAdam Adam
00
We arrived in Konya to visit the 13th Century old Caravanserai where Silk Road Tradesmen between China & Europe stopped overnight stay in the ancient days. The Sultanhani Seljuk Caravanserai, located on the Konya-Aksaray road, is the largest and most beautiful Seljuk Caravanserai. Lead by our Guide, the entrance is richly decorated with momumental marble portal. At the centre of the open courtyard ,is a small mosque. Surrounding compound of the courtyard are buildings that include kitchen, the dining hall, the hamam or bath house, and sitting rooms and bedrooms. The place was empty inside thus we are free to explore most rooms. Very beautifully decorated with handcrafted wall carpets. The fully enclosed quarters house stables for the load carrying and riding animals. Caravansarays provided accommodation, food and drink free of charge for up to three days for both locals and foreigners of different ethnic groups and religion without discrimination. Well preserved caravanserai and beautiful Seljuk architecture !!! worth the time spent !!
susan chowsusan chow
00
Our next stop after lunch and further down between Cappadocia and Konya was the scheduled stop-over at Century Sultanhani Caravenserai - a caravan way-station in this quiet small town somewhere along the ancient "Silk Road". Built by Turkish Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat I, between 1299 and 1236, repaired and restored numerous times in its eight centuries of existence and most recently with then past half century, Caravanserai was the place for traders travelling via this route. The exterior is still holding on strong with intricate carving and huge arches and pillars, the interior on the other hand is like a 13th century cathedral with thick walls and again, huge arches leading to the different rooms. Within the courtyard, there's a big stable for camels during winter and traders/people stayed here before making their way to Istanbul. Honestly guys, perhaps you should include a stopover at this place, just 10 minutes is enough though.
Nava KrishnanNava Krishnan
00
Sultanhani Kervansarayı is a mesmerizing historical gem that takes you back in time. As one of the most well-preserved caravanserais in Turkey, it offers a glimpse into the rich trading history of the Silk Road. The grandeur and architectural beauty of this ancient inn are awe-inspiring. The intricately carved stone walls, imposing entrance gate, and spacious courtyard create an atmosphere of grandeur and mystique. Exploring the various chambers and halls gives a sense of the vibrant past and the bustling trade that took place within these walls. Follow me on Instagram for more enchanting travel experiences @ecuadoriantravelista 🌍✨ Sultanhani Kervansarayı is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, providing a captivating journey into the world of ancient caravanserais.
Gabriela ReyesGabriela Reyes
10
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
İstikamet, Ufuklar Sk., 68000 Sultanhanı/Aksaray, Türkiye
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Overview
4.4
(4.2K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
outdoor
family friendly
Description
Sultan Han is a large 13th-century Seljuk caravanserai located in the town of Sultanhanı, Aksaray Province, Turkey. It is one of the three monumental caravanserais in the neighbourhood of Aksaray and is located about 40 km west of Aksaray on the road to Konya.
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