Kapan Han, Ottoman caravanserai in Old Bazaar, Skopje, North Macedonia
Description
Kapan Han is a caravanserai in Skopje's Old Bazaar featuring two levels with 44 guest rooms distributed across both floors. The structure includes dedicated areas for horses and merchants, served by separate ground-level and upper-floor entrances.
History
The building was constructed in the 15th century during the rule of Isa-Beg Isaković. It served as a revenue source for regional endowments through income generated from accommodating traveling merchants.
Culture
The name Kapan comes from an Arabic word for the scales that once measured goods at the entrance for merchants passing through. This reflects the building's role as a vital stop on ancient trade routes.
Practical
The building can be accessed through two separate entrances, one at street level and another on the upper floor. This layout allows visitors to explore different sections without having to pass through all areas.
Did you know?
Today a restaurant operates within these walls, allowing diners to eat in the same spaces that once hosted traveling merchants and their caravans. The centuries-old structure creates a setting where ancient trade history comes alive.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Skopje).
Skopje Fortress
184 m
Old Bazaar
87 m
Holocaust Memorial Center for the Jews of Macedonia
298 m
Mustafa Paşa Mosque
240 m
Suli An
207 m
Church of the Ascension of Jesus, Skopje
116 m
Kuršumli An
341 m
National and University Library "St. Kliment of Ohrid"
331 m
Museum of the Republic of North Macedonia
287 m
Macedonian National Opera and Ballet
278 m
Čifte Hammam
132 m
St. Demetrious Church
251 m
Daout Pacha Hammam
169 m
National Gallery of North Macedonia
179 m
Skanderbeg Monument
86 m
Bezisten
156 m
Murat Pasha Mosque (Skopje)
99 m
Museum of Skopje Old Bazaar
207 m
Arasta Mosque
221 m
Warrior Monument
364 m
Ottoman Post Building, Skopje
246 m
Gulchiler Amam
343 m
Mustafa Pasha Türbe
240 m
Skopje Konak
212 m
Köse Kadı Mosque, Skopje
131 m
National and University Library "St. Kliment of Ohrid" Building
307 m
Umi sarcophagus
230 m
Building of the Museum of Macedonia
277 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes