Karatay Han
A 13th-century caravanserai built by Seljuk vizier Karatay, notable for rare animal and human-face reliefs on its portal.
Karatay Han was built around 1240 by Seljuk vizier Celaleddin Karatay, in Karatay village in Bünyan district, about 40 km east of Kayseri. Its portal and courtyard arcades feature rare figurative carvings of lions, dragons and human faces, making it one of the most elaborately decorated Seljuk caravanserais. It contains a small mosque and the tombs of the Karatay family. Far fewer visitors come here than to Sultan Han, so you can often have the place to yourself. It is reached by private car or hired vehicle, and opening hours are irregular, so it is best to check ahead.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–17:00 (subject to change)
Nearby sights
- Ağırnas (Mimar Sinan's Birthplace)
- Sultan Han Caravanserai (Tuzhisar)
- Kültepe (Kanesh)
- Talas Old Town & Ali Dağı
- Tomb of Seyyid Burhaneddin
- Döner Kümbet
- Güpgüpoğlu Mansion Ethnography Museum
- Hunat Hatun Complex