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It’s no surprise that on our way from Antalya to Cappadocia, we came across a genuine caravanserai. What is caravanserai? Well, here are a few facts.
Cappadocia was once a stop on the Silk Road, so it had to have resting points for travelers and merchants, as well as for their horses and camels on their long journeys. These stops were placed every 30 to 40 kilometers, based on the distance a camel was believed to cover in a day.
One such grand caravanserai stood on my way from Konya to Cappadocia – Sultanhani Caravanserai Turkey. Stepping inside felt like traveling back in time.
I peeked through the massive marble gate at the entrance. Inside, the courtyard spread out as the centerpiece of a circular building with small rooms lining the perimeter. Foreign and local merchants were housed here for up to three days. Their shoes were repaired, and those without shoes were given a pair. If someone fell ill on the road, they could receive medical attention. There was even a small mosque for religious purposes.
All these services were provided by those who worked at caravanserais—medics, imams, cooks, craftsmen, couriers, and veterinarians. Animals, being essential to trade, received special care. Just as men got shoes, horses were fitted with horseshoes. They were fed and groomed with great attention.
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During the winter, caravanserais had ways to keep people warm at night. Merchants, not wanting to be separated from their animals, often shared the same room. Horses and camels were indispensable—without them, there was no trade, no money. To keep an eye on their animals and stay warmer, people would sleep in the same space. Beds were raised near the ceiling, leaving the animals on the floor so that their body heat would rise and warm the people above.
Walking through the vast hall of the caravanserai, I could hear my footsteps echoing. It brought vivid scenes to mind—a bustling crowd of merchants tending to their camels, packing goods, exchanging greetings, and sharing food… Oh, imagine spending a night in such a caravanserai today!
Next: COFFEE BREAK AT CARAVAN POST
The full Cappadocia SERIES
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6 responses
Caravansaray is a dream – accommodation for me. Hope I can spend a night or two in one 🙂 Thank you!
It was once, yes, a real accommodation for all the travelers. 🙂
Sultanhan is amazing. It’s like a picture book in reality that brings you years backward and gives you a sneak peak into the history. Creepy but very thrilling as well.
Somewhat creepy today since it’s empty, out of use, except for those tourist visits. Although, it must have been one vivid place once. 🙂
“Walking through the huge hall, I hear my footsteps echoing” — what a vivid description! I felt like I was there, exploring with you. Cappadocia is on my travel wishlist, so thanks for sharing your experience!
Thank you, this is a huge compliment for my writing! So glad you’ve felt it. And hope you’ll go soon. 🙂