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The structure, built between 1229 and 1236 by Sultan Keykubat, is one of the is one of the many along the ancient Silk-Road. The ancient and much travelled Silk-Road linked the Middle East, Iran, and Iraq with China. The route ran from Europe through Central Asia and on to China carrying silks, spices and all manner of goods between them. Caravanserais were in a way similar to present day truck stops. The Caravanserai The caravanserais were built like forts.They were a safe place for caravans. They were designed for protection and to keep out marauding raiders at night. Once within the caravanserai a weary caravan could look forward to warm food, a bath and a safe shelter for the night for both man and beast. Caravanserais offered the travelling merchant shelter for the night and...

The Grand Bazaar and the more authentic Egyptian Spice Market, situated in the old heart of the city, are two must-sees on any first-time traveler’s itinerary. Both of these popular tourist haunts close on Sundays, so plan accordingly. The Grand Bazaar – Beyazit, Istanbul Also known as the Covered Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi), this Ottoman-era covered market is home to thousands of vendors selling gold, Turkish carpets, clothing, handicrafts, silver, copperware, ceramics, leather bags, jewelry and other traditional Turkish souvenirs. Its origins date back to the 15th Century to the time of Mehmet the Conquerer (1451-1481). Covering 30 hectars, it extends over 65 streets, which are named after the Turkish crafts that are on display. However, let the buyer beware! Before visiting this Al...

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Sultanhani – Silk-Road Caravanserai in Turkey

Shopping in Istanbul’s Bazaars