Discover Sultanhanı: Caravanserai and Carpet Art

Sultanhanı is shaped by a historic caravanserai and a thriving carpet restoration tradition. The caravanserai was built in 1229 under the Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I; historic carpets from palaces and private collections are also restored in Sultanhanı. Visitors planning a stay can choose to focus on architectural history, craftsmanship, or the town’s location between Hasan Dağı, Karacadağ and Tuz Gölü.

The Caravanserai and Its Architectural History

The Sultanhanı Caravanserai is located within the town of Sultanhanı in Aksaray Province. It stands on the road between Konya and Aksaray, 42 kilometres from Aksaray. Its construction date and patron give the town a specific connection to Anatolia’s Seljuk history. Sultanhanı Hill is registered as a Category I and III archaeological site—another historical aspect of the destination.

A distinctive architectural detail lies at the centre of the caravanserai: a dome rests there on an octagonal drum with pendentives. This description identifies not only the dome, but also the form of its supporting structure. The caravanserai also includes two baths for travellers. Together, these features make the building an appealing subject for anyone interested in exploring historic architecture alongside the local landscape during their trip.

Carpet Restoration and Culture

Sultanhanı is also associated with the restoration of historic carpets. Workshops in the town restore carpets for Turkey’s National Palaces and the official residence of the President. The work has included historic carpets from Dolmabahçe Palace, restored true to their originals. Carpets from important palaces and private collections are also restored in Sultanhanı. Alongside the historic building, craftsmanship and the care of textile cultural heritage offer their own themes for a stay in the town.

In June 2024, the “İpekyolu Halı ve Kilim Sergisi” exhibition was held at the Sultanhanı Caravanserai. Carpets and kilims were on display. Another public event was the 3rd International Silk Road Festival for Carpets, Textiles, Culture and Tourism in Sultanhanı. It began on a Thursday, ran until Saturday and was open to the general public. These two examples showcase different cultural occasions: an exhibition in the caravanserai and a multi-day festival featuring carpets, textiles, culture and tourism.

Location and Choosing a Holiday Destination

Sultanhanı lies between Hasan Dağı, Karacadağ and Tuz Gölü. This geographic setting adds the town’s location between three notable regional landmarks to its cultural appeal. These landscape references offer another starting point for your plans: the key question is whether you want to frame your trip more around the historic town or its geographic location. A holiday rental in Sultanhanı is a suitable search option for travellers who want to make the town itself their base.

You can also explore other destinations: Aksaray, Ihlara Valley, Güzelyurt, Belisırma, Ortaköy, Gültepe Köyü, Harmandalı Belediyesi.

Back to the main travel overview: Aksaray.