Every tourist who has a rest in Nicosia or comes here on an excursion, seeks to visit one of the main attractions of the city – the Buyuk Khan Caravanserai. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most striking historical buildings of the entire island, so when heading here for a tour, you should definitely bring a camera.
The History Of The Büyük Khan
Buyuk Khan Caravanserai was built by the Turks in 1572 after they defeated the Venetians who ruled Nicosia. The caravanserai originally served as an inn. The place was extremely popular with travelers, to whom it gave a comfortable and safe rest after a difficult road.
Later, when the British came to power, the place changed its purpose and began to be used as a prison for those members of the local population who fought for independence. Even later, the building turned from a prison into a shelter for the poor. In the 90s, the building was reconstructed and received the status of an art center.
Buyuk Khan architecture
In terms of construction, Buyuk Khan consisted of 4 two-story buildings connected to each other and forming a common courtyard. the entire complex is made in the arabic style, has the shape of a square, each side of which is 50 m. In the center of the courtyard is an octagonal mosque and a fountain. The latter was not used for decorative purposes – they washed their feet in it before visiting the mosque.
The architecture of the entire complex is impressive. Massive colonnades, elegant verandas, numerous arches and turrets give the structure a refined look. The caravanserai is made of yellow stone in a traditional Arabic style. The patio is a favorite place for photo shoots. A truly romantic atmosphere reigns here in the evening, when the lights turn on and all the arches look even more elegant.
In terms of construction, Buyuk Khan consisted of 4 two-story buildings connected to each other and forming a common courtyard. the entire complex is made in the arabic style, has the shape of a square, each side of which is 50 m. In the center of the courtyard is an octagonal mosque and a fountain. The latter was not used for decorative purposes – they washed their feet in it before visiting the mosque.
The architecture of the entire complex is impressive. Massive colonnades, elegant verandas, numerous arches and turrets give the structure a refined look. The caravanserai is made of yellow stone in a traditional Arabic style. The patio is a favorite place for photo shoots. A truly romantic atmosphere reigns here in the evening, when the lights turn on and all the arches look even more elegant.
Buyuk Khan Caravanserai nowadays: why come here
Visit the Caravanserai is worth it in order to feel the amazing atmosphere of ancient times, take stunning pictures, as well as buy original handmade souvenirs. On the territory of the complex today there are many souvenir shops where you can buy handmade soap, jewelry, dishes, interior decor elements and all sorts of small things.
There is a cafe on the territory of Buyuk Khan, where you can have a snack and sit for a while, enjoying the atmosphere of this amazing place. Also on the territory of the Caravanserai, performances of the only Turkish Shadow Theater in Cyprus are periodically organized. On days when performances are not held, the entrance to the complex is free, on days of performances – paid.
Visit the Caravanserai is worth it in order to feel the amazing atmosphere of ancient times, take stunning pictures, as well as buy original handmade souvenirs. On the territory of the complex today there are many souvenir shops where you can buy handmade soap, jewelry, dishes, interior decor elements and all sorts of small things.
There is a cafe on the territory of Buyuk Khan, where you can have a snack and sit for a while, enjoying the atmosphere of this amazing place. Also on the territory of the Caravanserai, performances of the only Turkish Shadow Theater in Cyprus are periodically organized. On days when performances are not held, the entrance to the complex is free, on days of performances – paid.
RU_RU 
EN_GB 
DE