Büyük Han: A Journey Through Time

4.6 (1961)

Explore the historic Büyük Han in Nicosia: a beautifully restored Ottoman-era caravanserai, now a vibrant center for arts, culture, and Cypriot crafts.

Büyük Han, or the Great Inn, is the largest caravanserai in Cyprus, located in Nicosia. Built in 1572 by the Ottomans, this historical landmark has served as an inn, prison, and refuge before being restored as a vibrant arts and cultural center. Today, visitors can explore craft shops, galleries, and cafes within its historic walls.

A brief summary to Büyük Han

Büyük Khan,Nicosia,Cyprus, Nicosia, North Nicosia, 99010, CY

Local tips

Stroll around the courtyard to admire the Ottoman caravanserai architectural style.
Visit the central mescit (prayer room) in the courtyard, a rare design balanced on six pillars.
Enjoy traditional Cypriot coffee or a meal at one of the cafes in the courtyard.
Browse the shops for unique, handcrafted souvenirs, including leather goods, jewelry, and textiles.
Check for cultural events, such as music performances or art exhibitions, often held in the evenings.

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Getting There

Walking

Büyük Han is easily accessible on foot within North Nicosia. Follow pedestrian signs from major landmarks or the city center. The walk is generally short and allows you to explore the surrounding historic streets.
Public Transport

Local buses stop near Büyük Han. Check local bus routes and schedules for the most convenient option from your location. Bus lines 2, 3, 4, 400 and 405 stop nearby. A single fare for a short trip is approximately €2.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Nicosia. A short taxi ride from the city center or other locations in Nicosia to Büyük Han typically costs between €5-€7. Taxi services like VIP Taxi and Taxi Trips Nicosia operate in the area.

Discover more about Büyük Han

Büyük Han, meaning "Great Inn," stands as a remarkable testament to Cyprus's layered history. Constructed in 1572 by the Ottoman Empire, shortly after their conquest of the island, it is considered one of the finest examples of Ottoman caravanserai architecture on the island. The building initially served as a caravanserai, providing lodging for travelers and merchants.Architecturally, Büyük Han showcases a blend of Ottoman design principles. The two-story structure features a large, open courtyard surrounded by rooms with colonnades and cross vaults. The ground floor historically served as a space for commerce and stables, while the upper floor provided accommodation. A notable feature is the two-story prayer room (köşk mescidi) in the courtyard, resting on marble piers with a fountain for ablutions, a design rare outside of Turkey.Over the centuries, Büyük Han has undergone several transformations. Under British rule, it was used as a prison from 1892 to 1903. Later, it provided refuge for poor families. In the 1990s, a major restoration project revitalized Büyük Han, transforming it into a thriving arts center.Today, Büyük Han is a vibrant hub where visitors can explore art galleries, workshops, and shops selling traditional handicrafts. Cafes within the courtyard offer a relaxing space to soak in the historical ambiance. The site also hosts cultural events, including music performances and art exhibitions. Nearby attractions include the Selimiye Mosque (formerly St. Sophia Cathedral) and the Ledra Street Crossing Point, offering further insight into Nicosia's history and culture.