Büyük Han in Lefkoşa — the Largest Caravanserai of Northern Cyprus

Büyük Han is located in the Old City of Nicosia. It is the largest caravanserai on the island, built in 1572, featuring a courtyard, a prayer room, and 68 rooms across two floors. Admission to the grounds is free, and today the complex operates as a cultural space with workshops, galleries, souvenir shops, and cafes.

• History of the Caravanserai
• Structure of Büyük Han
• Büyük Han Today
• How to Get There
• Frequently Asked Questions

History of the Caravanserai

Büyük Han was built by the Ottomans in 1572, one year after the island was taken from the Venetians. Its construction is attributed to Muzaffer Pasha, the first Ottoman governor of Cyprus, and Koza Han in Bursa is considered its architectural model.

Initially, the complex was intended to accommodate travelers and merchants from Anatolia and other parts of the island. According to historical records, its early name was associated with Alanya, while the modern name "Büyük Han" (Great Inn) became established later in the 17th century when the more modest Kumarcilar Han was built nearby.

After the island passed under British administration in 1878, the building was used as Nicosia's central prison. Between 1903 and 1947, the complex returned to its role as an inn, and subsequently served as low-cost housing for low-income families until 1962.

Structure of Büyük Han

The complex is almost square, measuring approximately 40 by 45 meters. It contains 68 rooms on two floors: the lower level was historically used for stables, warehouses, and commercial premises, while the upper level was for accommodation.

Each room on the first floor features a low arched door, an arched window, and a hearth. The windows are positioned high up, which served practical purposes at the time: it made access difficult for thieves and reduced the cost of glazing.

In the center of the courtyard is a mesjit—a small Muslim prayer room set on six pillars above an ablution fountain. Nearby is a grave believed to belong to a high-status individual who died during prayer.

Büyük Han Today

Following a major restoration that spanned much of the 1990s, Büyük Han has been transformed into a cultural center for the Old City of Nicosia. It now houses craft workshops, galleries, shops selling local products, and cafes.

Entrance to the courtyard is free, making it a convenient stop even during a short walk through the center. In practice, it is one of North Nicosia's most accessible historical locations: other important monuments are nearby, and within the complex itself, visitors can combine architectural sightseeing with relaxation and shopping for local goods.

The complex regularly hosts cultural events, including musical performances and small stage programs. Therefore, it is useful to check the Old City's venue listings before your visit if you wish to attend an event rather than just tour the building.

How to Get There

Büyük Han is located in the center of the Old City of Nicosia, within the city walls. If you are traveling by public transport, it is convenient to get off at the Kyrenia Gate and then walk just under 1 kilometer through the Old City.

When traveling by car, please note that there is no parking directly at the complex: the surrounding area consists mostly of pedestrian streets and narrow lanes. Usually, visitors leave their cars a short distance away and continue on foot.

If you do not have a car, you can explore rental options through Discover Cars or directly with one of the rental companies in Northern Cyprus. We covered the rental process in detail in the article "Car Rental in Northern Cyprus."

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy a ticket for Büyük Han?

No, entrance to the grounds is free. You only need to pay for purchases, food, or drinks at the cafes and shops inside the complex.

How much time should I set aside for a visit?

A short walk through the Old City is usually enough for a leisurely viewing of the courtyard, galleries, and shops. If you plan to sit in a cafe or combine the visit with neighboring attractions, more time will be required.

Where to park nearby?

There is no parking at the caravanserai itself. Cars are usually left at a distance from the complex, closer to the streets around the Bedesten or the Bandabuliya Market, and the rest of the way is covered on foot.

What to see near Büyük Han?

Within walking distance are the Selimiye Mosque, the Bedesten Cultural Center, the Bandabuliya Market, and an ancient hammam. This makes for a convenient route for a single walk through the historical center of North Nicosia.

Is the site suitable for a short visit?

Yes. Büyük Han is suitable for both a standalone 20–30 minute stop and a longer stroll involving coffee, shopping, and visiting nearby historical sites.