Mahperi Hatun (Pazar) Caravanserai

Mahperi Hatun (Pazar) Caravanserai

Mahperi Hatun Caravanserai is an impressive example of Seljuk architecture located along the Tokat-Pazar road, about 29 kilometers from Tokat and nearly 1 kilometer from Pazar District. Built in 1238 by Mahperi Hatun, who was the wife of Alaeddin Keykubad and mother to II. Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev, this caravanserai served as a vital resting place for caravans passing through the area for many centuries.

Mahperi Hatun (Pazar) Caravanserai

The caravanserai is constructed from precisely cut limestone blocks, following a traditional Seljuk design with an open courtyard and a covered section at the rear. One of its distinctive features is the outdoor fountain, which is built into a niche on the front wall to the left of the main entrance.

Famous for its detailed embellishments, the caravanserai includes holes carved at eye level on the corners of the square towers by the gateway, which were used to tie camels. The chamber immediately left of the main entrance likely functioned as a bank or treasury for traders, marking it as a key space within the structure. Above its entrance door, there is a fine band of white marble decorated with lotus motifs and a finely crafted carving beneath it.

The ornamental focus is around the main portal, featuring side niches framed with elegant arabesque patterns. The overall design is modest yet refined, showcasing twisted rope and chevron motifs. Although it stands as one of the most remarkable Seljuk caravanserais, the Mahperi Hatun Caravanserai remains relatively unknown and attracts few visitors.

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