Completed in 1467, Bizim Han stands as a testament to Istanbul’s rich commercial past. Bizim Han is the oldest surviving caravanserai in this vibrant city. Imagine merchants from distant lands seeking shelter. They sought trade within its sturdy walls.
Bizim Han began as part of a külliye. This religious and charitable complex was founded by Mahmud Pasha. He was the grand vizier of Mehmet II Fatih “the Conqueror”. The Mahmut Pasha Mosque anchored this complex. Completed in 1464, it stands as one of Istanbul’s earliest Ottoman architectural achievements. The waqf of the mosque was extensive. It covered many buildings across the surrounding district. Mehmet II entrusted Mahmud Pasha with developing this area. This was near the city’s commercial heart. It was just east and north of the Grand Bazaar.
The Mahmut Pasha Hamam, the bathhouse, stood a block south of Bizim Han. The caravanserai, a few blocks north of the mosque, earned the name Kürkçü Han. This translates to “Caravanserai of the Fur Merchants”. Bizim Han generated revenue for the mosque’s waqf. Shops and offices within paid rent. Today, businesses still occupy Bizim Han.
Bizim Han mirrors earlier urban caravanserais found in Ottoman cities like Bursa. It features two courtyards. The southern courtyard is nearly square and well-preserved. The northern one has an irregular shape. It has suffered damage over time. Originally, a fountain and small mescit likely graced the south courtyard. Today, a modern rectangular mosque stands there instead.
An arched gallery surrounds the courtyard on two stories. This gallery provided access to numerous rooms. Historical accounts vary on the exact number of rooms within Bizim Han. One count suggests around 167 rooms. Another estimates 45 rooms on each of the south courtyard’s two stories. The north courtyard had about 30 rooms on each level. Bizim Han’s primary entrance faces east.
The Ottomans prioritized functionality in architecture. The hans became smaller and more integrated into the city. The hans of Istanbul needed to fit among other buildings.
Once inside Bizim Han, merchants found lodging, storage and office space. Artisans also used workshops there. Imagine the bustling trade within these walls. Foreign merchants negotiated deals. Goods from across the world passed through here. Today, Bizim Han is famous for being a knitters’ paradise. You can find yarn and other craft paraphernalia sold cheaply here.
Bizim Han offers a glimpse into Ottoman-era commerce. As you wander through its courtyard, you can feel the echoes of history. The legacy of Bizim Han endures. It connects us to Istanbul’s vibrant past. Bizim Han remains a treasure.