Buyuk Han
Lefkosia [Lefkoşa]
Büyük Han, meaning 'Great Inn,' is the largest and one of the finest surviving caravansarais on Cyprus, located in the capital city of Nicosia. Constructed in 1572 shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus, it was originally designed as a roadside inn for merchants and travelers, modeled after the Koza Han in Bursa. The rectangular two-story building surrounds a spacious inner courtyard, which features a distinctive mansion-style mosque with a fountain for ablutions at its center. Historically, the ground floor rooms served commercial purposes while the upper floor provided accommodation. Over the centuries, Büyük Han has served multiple roles including a prison under British rule, an inn, and a refuge for poor families. Following restoration efforts in the 1990s, it has been revitalized as a thriving cultural hub with galleries, workshops, cafes, and souvenir shops, making it a vibrant destination that blends history, architecture, and contemporary arts. Its unique hexagonal and octagonal chimneys hint at medieval origins, adding to its architectural intrigue. Visitors can experience both the historic ambiance and lively creative atmosphere within this iconic Ottoman monument in Cyprus.
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Astuce: Visit Büyük Han during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy the peaceful courtyard cafes. Purchasing tickets or entry is generally not required, but check for any special exhibitions or events that may require advance booking. The site offers free access to most areas, and visitors can explore the galleries and shops at leisure. Early morning or late afternoon visits provide the best light for photography and a more tranquil experience. Some shops and cafes may offer discounts or special deals during off-peak hours or cultural festivals. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the two floors and courtyard.
Faits intéressants
- •Büyük Han is the largest caravansarai on the island of Cyprus.
- •The central mosque in the courtyard is a rare example of a 'mansion masjid' found in Anatolian caravansarais.
- •The building was used as Nicosia's central prison during British rule from 1892 to 1903.
- •The hexagonal and octagonal stone chimneys in each room may originate from a medieval building that once stood on the site.
- •The grave near the mosque is traditionally believed to belong to Muzaffer Pasha, though this is considered a myth by some historians.
Histoire
Büyük Han was built in 1572 under Ottoman rule, shortly after Cyprus was seized from the Venetians.
It was likely commissioned by Muzaffer Pasha, the first Ottoman governor of Cyprus, or his successor Sinan Pasha.
Initially called Yeni Han (New Inn), it served as a caravansarai for merchants, particularly those from Alanya.
In the 17th century, after a smaller inn was built nearby, it became known as Büyük Han (Great Inn).
During British administration starting in 1878, it was converted into the Central Prison of Nicosia until 1903.
Subsequently, it resumed its function as an inn, and later served as affordable housing for poor families until the mid-20th century.
After extensive restoration in the 1990s, it was transformed into a cultural and arts center.
Guide du lieu
Inner Courtyard and Mosque16th century
The heart of Büyük Han is its large open courtyard, featuring a unique mansion-style mosque with a fountain for ritual ablutions. The mosque stones are believed to have been repurposed from other buildings, reflecting Ottoman architectural traditions from Anatolia.
Ground Floor Rooms and Shops16th century
The ground floor historically housed commercial shops and workshops. Today, these spaces continue to be used as galleries, souvenir shops, and cafes, maintaining the building’s commercial heritage.
Upper Floor Accommodation16th century
The upper floor traditionally provided lodging for travelers and merchants. Visitors can explore these rooms, which have retained their original layout and feature distinctive stone chimneys.
Main Entrance and Architecture1572
The main entrance on the eastern side opens onto Asmaaltı Square. The building’s roughly square shape and two-story design are characteristic of Ottoman caravansarai architecture, with cross-vaulted colonnades surrounding the courtyard.