Caravanserai/Caravansary

Abstract

The historical prominence of Muslims in trade, dating back to the early centuries of Islam, has earned them the epithet of the trade civilization. Numerous architectural edifices, including caravanserais, khans, ribâts, and qaysarriyyas, were constructed in various cities within the Islamic geography. These constructions were primarily intended to facilitate trade activities, while also serving dual functions for both military and commercial endeavors. Caravanserais, which hold significant prominence in Turkish-Islamic architectural discourse, are frequently discussed in conjunction with the notions of khan and ribât, within the realm of architectural typologies. Historical records depict khans as architectural establishments akin to caravanserais, which were regarded as repositories of merchandise alongside the customary urban marketplaces. Nevertheless, these two concepts exhibit disparities in their respective economic functionalities. Caravanserais are architectural edifices typically constructed along interstate routes, serving as temporary lodging for commerce caravans. These establishments facilitate the exchange of products and the execution of financial transactions. The structures in question are regarded as a direct extension of the ribâts constructed in various regions of the Islamic world. These structures function as establishments where trade and pilgrimage caravans reside at intercity intersections. Additionally, they serve as accommodations for passengers and facilitate trade operations within urban areas. In the Anatolian region, one often comes across remarkable instances of caravanserais that exhibit impressive architectural and aesthetic qualities. Historical documents provide substantiation of stock exchange transactions occurring within urban caravanserais. These structures serve as accommodations that provide free lodging for individuals of all socioeconomic backgrounds, encompassing both affluent and impoverished individuals, as well as those who are free and those who are enslaved, together with their accompanying animals.