Ağzıkarahan

Ağzıkarahan is a medieval caravanserai in Aksaray Province, a solid stone structure with an imposing entrance portal leading inward. The building encloses a central courtyard surrounded by chambers and storage areas that once sheltered merchants and travelers during their journeys.

Construction began in 1231 under Sultan Ala ad-Din Kayqubad I, with the courtyard completed in 1240 under Kaykhusraw II. It was part of the network of rest stations built across Anatolia to support the region's busy trade routes.

The mosque within the courtyard shows how religious practice was woven into the daily life of travelers passing through. Visitors can still see how the four pillars created a space where people paused to pray before continuing their journey.

The site is located about 20 kilometers from the center of Aksaray city and welcomes visitors interested in exploring ancient trade routes. Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the building and courtyard requires walking across uneven stone surfaces.

Merchants received free lodging for three nights and compensation for stolen goods, creating one of the earliest insurance systems in history. This practice reveals how thoughtfully these travel stations were managed to protect those passing through.