Rüstem Pasha Caravanserai

The Rüstem Pasha Caravanserai is a two-story building with a rectangular layout arranged around a central courtyard, featuring 21 shops along its front section. The structure was designed with classic caravanserai features to house travelers while enabling commerce to take place.

The building was constructed in 1561 under architect Mimar Sinan's direction, commissioned by Grand Vizier Rüstem Pasha during the reign of Suleyman. Following restoration in 1972, it was converted into a hotel, continuing its traditional function of providing lodging for travelers.

The building reflects Edirne's importance as a trading hub where merchants from Asia and Europe met during Ottoman times. Visitors can still see the shops in the front section, which show how traders displayed and sold their goods to passing travelers.

The building currently operates as a functioning hotel with about 110 rooms available for guests. If you wish to visit or stay, check locally for access rules and visiting hours, as these may vary depending on the season.

The building received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1980, one of the highest honors for construction projects in the Islamic world. This recognition highlights how successfully the balance was achieved between historical preservation and modern hotel use.