Caravanserai in Sutanhani

Presently, Sultanhanı is not on one of the main highways of Turkey. But it was one of the most important stops in caravan routes during the Middle Ages.

In the 13 century Seljuks built caravanserais (guest houses) for trade caravans. Curiously, all these structures we call caravanserais, but they fall into two categories. There are also hans, which were built in the cities. And caravanserais located in the countryside and often offered additional services like blacksmithing to caravans.

Han Sulan was built in 1229. It is clear how the city recieved it's name Sultan + Han. It consist of two courtyards, open summer and closed winter. This architecture is considered a "classic" in the construction of caravanserais and hans. It is the largest of the Sultan hans and probably the most beautiful. If you have only opportunity to see only one han, choose this one.

Decline came to han after the great geographical discoveries (1482-1524).

Getting there: The town Sultanhani lies on the road between Konya, Aksaray, Nevsehir. Caravanserai stands in the middle of the city, 200 meters from the main road. You can get there on any bus between Konya and Nevsehir (Aksaray). How to get to Konya look here, to Nevsehir - here.