Karatay Caravanserai

Karatay Caravanserai

Located in the village of Karadayı, 50 km east of Kayseri on the Pınarbaşı-Malatya Highway, the Karatay Han is a well-known caravanserai that served the Yabunlu Bazaar, an important trade fair during the 13th century.

Karatay Caravanserai

Construction of the han began during the reign of Alaeddin Keykubad and was completed in 1240-1241 during the rule of his son. It is one of the best-preserved Anatolian hans, and it represents one of the most impressive examples of Seljuk architecture. The han's relief sculptures on its walls and pillars are particularly famous. This site is unique in that it includes an integrated bath, mosque, and infirmary, which were initially planned from a building layout perspective.

The han faces north-south and is comprised of a covered section used for lodging that was built first, and an open courtyard lined with service facilities next to it. Both sections have entrances that face south. The courtyard is entirely open, with the mosque to the right side and arcades to the left. The eastern facade features a burial tomb chamber decorated with a rectangular frieze of animals, geometrical shapes, and bird patterns.