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Khan El Franj: A Historic Caravanserai in Sidon

Explore Khan El Franj in Sidon: A 17th-century caravanserai blending Ottoman & European influences, now a vibrant cultural hub.

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Khan El Franj, or the Caravanserai of the Franks, is a 17th-century Ottoman structure in Sidon, Lebanon, that once served as a bustling commercial hub for merchants from Europe and other territories. Today, it stands as a beautifully restored historical landmark and cultural center, offering visitors a glimpse into Sidon's rich past.

A brief summary to Khan El Franj

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Explore the surrounding Historic District, filled with ancient souks, traditional Lebanese houses, and historic mosques.
  • Visit the nearby Sea Castle, a Crusader fortress offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Check for ongoing events, such as art exhibitions, music concerts, or cultural festivals, hosted within the Khan's courtyard.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Khan El Franj is located in Sidon's Historic District, making it easily accessible on foot from many points within the old city. From the Sidon Sea Castle, walk east through the old souks towards the port. The Khan is situated near the port, serving as a connecting point between the docks and the souks. There are no specific costs associated with walking to the Khan.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving in Sidon by bus from Beirut, the bus will likely drop you off near the main roundabout or the entrance to the city. From there, you can take a local shared taxi ('service') to the Historic District. The Khan is a short walk from where the service will drop you off. A shared taxi ('service') within Sidon costs approximately 150,000 LBP.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Sidon. Ask the driver to take you to Khan El Franj in the Historic District, near the port. A short taxi ride within Sidon should cost around 600,000 LBP. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Khan El Franj

Khan El Franj, located in the historic district of Sidon, is a captivating reminder of the city's vibrant past as a major trading port. Built in the 17th century, the Khan, or caravanserai, was a roadside inn where travelers could rest. The structure is often attributed to Emir Fakhreddine II, though construction was ordered in the late 15th century by Grand Vizier Sokullu Mehmed Pasha. Its name, meaning "Caravansary of the Franks," comes from the French merchants who frequented it in the 17th century. Historically, the Khan was a center of commercial activity, where merchants from Europe, Africa, and other Lebanese territories gathered to trade. The architecture reflects this diverse history, blending Ottoman and European influences. The large rectangular courtyard with a central fountain, surrounded by covered galleries, is characteristic of many khans of the era. Over the centuries, Khan El Franj has been repurposed, serving as a French consulate, a convent, an orphanage, and an educational facility. After being partially devastated during the Lebanese Civil War, the Hariri Foundation for Sustainable Human Development restored it. Today, it functions as a cultural center, hosting festivities, exhibitions, forums, and workshops. Tourists can explore the ancient stables, climb the narrow staircases, and relax in the serene central courtyard.

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