Overview:

Seljuk Caravanserai is one of the oldest and best-preserved caravanserais in the world. Located in the heart of Konya, the historical capital of the Seljuk Turks, it was constructed in the 12th century by the Seljuk ruler Alaeddin Keykubad I. The caravanserai is an awe-inspiring showcase of the Seljuk style of architecture, boasting four huge domes and a grand courtyard. Its magnificent stone entrance is a work of art in its own right. The caravanserai served as a stop-over for traders and travellers, providing accommodation and protection in case of danger. Today, the building still stands in its original form and is a popular tourist attraction. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Turkey
Prominent Features:

The Seljuk Caravanserai in Konya is a remarkable surviving example of Seljuk architecture. Constructed in the 13th century, this caravanserai is an impressive sight with its massive compound walls punctuated by four octagonal towers. The exterior walls are constructed from limestone and are decorated with geometric stonework panels and a circular emblem of six pointed stars – a common motif in Seljuk artistry. Inside this large enclosed space, a rectangular courtyard is divided into small compartments for travelers and their animals, and a number of arcades and stables flank the courtyard. The caravanserai was built to provide shelter and security to traders and travelers and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Seljuk architecture in Turkey. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Turkey.

History:

The Seljuk Empire was a major power in Asia Minor in the 11th and 12th centuries, ruling over what is now known as Turkey. Founded by a Turkic tribe, they adopted and integrated the Persian and Islamic culture, architecture and in that period built many impressive monuments in Turkey. The Seljuk Caravanserais are a part of that architectural legacy. Built as stopover points for traveling merchants, they are usually found located along the main trade routes. In Konya, the capital city of the Seljuk Empire, there are several well-preserved caravanserais that have survived since the 12th century. The İnce Minareli Medrese Caravanserai is one of the most impressive. Built in 1282, it features an impressive minaret and courtyard, and is now open to the public as a museum. The Kongar Caravanserai, constructed in 1220, is another important example and although it is partially ruined, its once grand arched gateways remain standing. Other examples in Konya include the Sahip Ata Caravanserai from the 13th century and the Yol Pazari Caravanserai, built in 1245 and still functioning as an important stop for traders. All of these caravanserais bear testament to the architectural skill and might of the Seljuk Empire. Visit one of the famous monuments of Turkey with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Seljuk-era Caravanserai is a series of small inns located along ancient trade routes in the Anatolian region of Turkey. 2. The Caravanserai were built to serve as roadsides inns and small fortresses to serve travelers. 3. The Seljuks were a Persian dynasty that ruled over Anatolia and parts of Iran in the 11th-14th centuries. 4. Historically, the Konya region was home to a large number of Caravanserai, many of which can still be seen today. 5. The Seljuk caravanserai featured high walls and narrow streets, as they were intended to serve as a refuge for travelers from attacks. 6. They consisted of an inner court with a central mosque, storage cellars, and rooms for travelers. 7. Many Caravanserai also featured water reservoirs, gardens, baths, and even shops. 8. The caravanserai was a key player in promoting commerce and social exchange throughout the region. 9. Some of the best-preserved caravanserai can be seen in the Konya region, including the Sultan Han Caravanserai. 10. Travelers could stop at a caravanserai to rest and stay the night for free. One of the historical monuments of Turkey, it tells the story of a bygone era