Kürkçü Han

Kürkçü Han is a caravanserai in the Mahmutpaşa district featuring two large courtyards enclosed by two-story arched galleries. The southern section retains its original structure, with rooms now used as shops selling yarn, textiles, and fabrics to local buyers.

Construction was completed in 1467 by architect Atik Sinan, making it the oldest surviving commercial structure of its kind in Istanbul. It emerged as part of the city's trade expansion during the early Ottoman period.

The name references kürk, the fur trade that was central to this place for centuries. Today the courtyards remain active trading spaces where merchants and craftspeople continue their work within these historic walls.

The building sits between the Grand Bazaar and Eminönü, making it easy to reach on foot. You can walk through the courtyards to see the architecture from different angles and watch the merchants working in their shops.

A small mosque sits in the center of the south courtyard, donated by Hacı Küçük to replace an earlier prayer room. This shows how religious and trading spaces were woven together in these caravanserais.

Location: Istanbul

Architects: Atik Sinan

Architectural style: Ottoman architecture

GPS coordinates: 41.01311,28.97008

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:45