Sarihan Caravanserai

Sarihan Caravanserai, also known as Yellow Caravanserai, is a stunning historical building located on the outskirts of Avanos in Cappadocia, Turkey. This beautiful caravanserai was built with stones of yellow color in 1249, during the Seljuk era in Anatolia. The building was renovated and restored in 1991, and now it stands as a beautiful example of Seljuk architecture.

The caravanserai was built on the ancient Silk Road, an important trade route that linked China to the Mediterranean. It served as a resting place and shelter for merchants, their animals, and their goods. The caravanserais were built with high walls and fortified gates to protect the travelers from bandits and robbers who roamed the trade routes. They also provided basic necessities for the travelers, such as food, water, medical care, and accommodation.

Sarihan Caravanserai has a small mosque located over the main gate, which is a unique feature compared to other caravanserais in the region. The building has a central courtyard surrounded by six open rooms covered by vaulted arches. On the right side of the courtyard, there are roofed rooms scattered around, each with its own intricately carved portal. Opposite the entrance, there is a second portal that leads to a large domed room with sparse lighting. This space is used to host performances of whirling dervishes, which is a popular attraction for visitors to Cappadocia.

The caravanserai is open to visitors every day, and there is an entrance fee to be paid. Inside, visitors can see the beautiful Seljuk stone sculptures that decorate the door frames and admire the intricate carvings on the portals. They can also explore the courtyard and take a closer look at the architecture of the building.

To get to Sarihan Caravanserai, visitors can take a taxi or a private car from the center of Avanos. The caravanserai is located about 8 kilometers from Avanos, and the journey takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, visitors can join a guided tour that includes a visit to Sarihan Caravanserai and other attractions in the area.

In summary, Sarihan Caravanserai is a must-see attraction for visitors to Cappadocia. Its beautiful architecture, unique features, and rich history make it a fascinating destination. Visitors can admire the intricate carvings, learn about the Silk Road and the Seljuk era, and witness a performance of whirling dervishes in a truly unforgettable setting.